How a compass works: what it looks like and what it is needed for

Understanding how a compass works is quite simple. The classic magnetic case has an arrow that is aligned strictly along the lines of force of the planet’s magnetic field. There are other devices, such as a gyrocompass and an electronic gadget. The features of each type are described in more detail in this material.

Purpose of the compass

Almost everyone has an idea of ​​what a compass looks like. In the simplest case, it is a round-shaped case with a transparent lid. Inside it is a dial (a ring with evenly spaced divisions). In the middle is the center of rotation of the arrow, which rotates in a circle in all directions.

It is quite clear why a compass is needed. It allows you to determine the direction, which is estimated depending on the location of the arrow:

• north N;
• south S;
• west W;
• east E.

Of course, the arrow may not point clearly in these directions. Most often, she points to the scales between them. These scales mean specific angles, for example, 210 or 60, 70 degrees, etc. Moreover, intermediate directions occur at a certain interval:

• northeast 45 degrees;
• southeast corresponds to 135 degrees;
• southwest is 225 degrees;
• northwest is 315 degrees.

How the device works

The operating principle of the device directly depends on its specific type:

1. Classic magnetic.
2. Gyro-compass.
3. Electronic.

Magnetic

This is a classic type device that has been used for many centuries. Moreover, despite the presence of electronic gadgets, it is partly used today. The principle of its operation is related to the influence of the planet’s magnetic field.

Being under its force influence, it always rotates relative to its own axis until it stands clearly along the direction of the magnetic field line. Since the arrow always runs parallel to this imaginary line, it points north. Exceptions are cases where other field sources are nearby (for example, a telephone, a magnet, iron alloys).

Gyro-compass

This device is a rotating wheel, which is installed in a special suspension. The axis is freely oriented in space; thanks to the gravity of the Earth, it points only in one direction - parallel to the axis of rotation of the planet. Thus, it points due north.

Gyrocompasses are widely used on ships. Moreover, today, instead of suspension, they use improved sealed chambers filled with hydrogen, as well as oil for lubrication.

Electronic

Electronic (digital) is the most accurate compass. It runs on a chip that builds coordinates based on communication with a satellite (GLONASS or GPS navigation system). Such compasses are installed on almost all smartphones and in some smartwatch models. They are also produced as independent gadgets.

In conclusion, you can also clarify the answer to the question - what is the correct compass or compass. According to the generally accepted norm of the Russian language, a word must be pronounced with emphasis only on the first syllable. Only in one case does the stress fall on the second syllable - in professional speech, sailors can say: “kompAs”.Thus, pronunciation depends on the context.