Dip Needle Compass vs. Normal Compass

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on the differences between dip needle compasses and normal compasses, specifically their operational mechanics. A dip needle compass dips down due to the Earth's magnetic field, which has a vertical component that is 4-5 times larger than the horizontal component in northern regions. This verticality complicates compass design, necessitating gimbaled compasses for ships to maintain a level orientation. Dip needle compasses serve primarily as instruments for investigating the Earth's magnetic field and can be used for latitude measurement, although sextants are preferred for this purpose.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of Earth's magnetic field dynamics
  • Familiarity with compass mechanics
  • Knowledge of gimbal systems in navigation
  • Basic principles of geolocation techniques
NEXT STEPS
  • Research the mechanics of dip needle compasses
  • Explore the design and function of gimbaled compasses
  • Study the Earth's magnetic field and its components
  • Learn about latitude measurement techniques using sextants
USEFUL FOR

Students of physics, navigators, and anyone interested in the principles of magnetism and navigation tools.

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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