Solveeit Logo

Question

Question: In which direction a compass needle kept at a magnetic pole will point....

In which direction a compass needle kept at a magnetic pole will point.

Explanation

Solution

The above problem can be resolved using the concept and applications of the magnetic field of the earth. The magnetic compass is usually used by travellers, especially during uneven trips, to determine the directions. The compass needle is magnetized and has its working direction only to the horizontal direction, and possesses the ability to move in a circular motion. Moreover, the compass's pointing is towards the northern direction, and the major reason behind this is that the north pole of the magnet is attracted by the opposite pole of the magnetic field of the earth.

Complete step by step solution:
The magnetic field at the pole of the earth lies in a vertical direction. As the magnetic compass needle is supposed to have its functionality, it can only undergo the circular motion in a horizontal direction.
Therefore, the magnetic compass needle can be placed in any direction to point towards the magnetic pole.

Note: Try to understand the fundamentals involved in the magnetic field of the earth. The earth's magnetic field is known as the geomagnetic field that starts from the inside surface of the earth and races through the outer surface on the surface of the earth. Moreover, the earth's magnetic field also surrounds the electric currents, such that these electric currents are circulated through the metallic core of the earth. Furthermore, the magnetic field of earth has its wider practical applications.