Dip Needle Compass vs. Normal Compass

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around the differences between a dip needle compass and a normal compass, specifically focusing on the reasons behind their distinct behaviors in relation to the Earth's magnetic field.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Conceptual clarification

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants explore the reasons for the dip of the dip needle compass compared to the rotation of a normal compass, questioning the underlying principles of Earth's magnetic field and its vertical and horizontal components.

Discussion Status

Some participants have provided insights into the nature of the Earth's magnetic field and its impact on compass design, while others continue to seek clarification on the fundamental differences between the two types of compasses. Multiple aspects of the topic are being examined without a clear consensus.

Contextual Notes

There is mention of the practical challenges in designing compasses that function accurately when tilted, as well as the use of dip needle compasses for specific investigations related to the Earth's magnetic field.

qomoco
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Why does one "dips" down and the other rotates?
 
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I know what it looks like, I'm wondering "why"
 
Why does it dip?
Because the magnetic field of the Earth is mostly vertical, it goes out of one pole and into the other. For typical northern city the vertical component is about 4-5x larger than the horizontal, which is a real pain if you are trying to design a compass that can be used when tilted.
- that's why ships compasses are gimbaled to always float level when the ships tips

Why you would own one?
Mainly as an instrument to investigate/demonstrate the Earth's field. You could use it to measure your latitude -although a sextant is easier.
 

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