The Compass

Compass is a navigational instrument for determining direction in the form of an arrow pointing magnetic freely align themselves with Earth's magnetic field accurately. Compass provides referral particular direction so it is very helpful in the field of navigation. Designee direction is north, south, east, and west.

When used together with clock and sextant, the compass is more accurate in showing the direction. This tool helps the development of maritime trade by making travel safer and much more efficient than when people are still guided by the position of stars to determine direction. Compass works in a simple way.

Compass parts. (Picture from: http://www.compasscollector.com/)

Basically, just show the north and south. The main part is a needle (a term to describe the magnetic metal thin plate at both ends tapered) were placed and arranged to move freely on the shaft so that it can move the center point north and south.

William Thomson, 1st Baron 
Kelvin of Largs (Lord Kelvin) 
(1824 -1907). (Picture from:
http://www.podjockey.com/)

Later, the needle is attached to a circular field with symbols of the cardinal directions complete with line degree. According to some historical records, the compass was made during the Qin Dynasty (221-206 BC). Initially, the compass is not used as a navigation tool like today. Chinese people at that time used it to help implement one of the traditions of their famous feng-shui. An understanding of layout can affect human life. The discovery that the magnetic needle always points north and south in China and is described in the Loven Heng book.

In the ninth century, the Chinese have developed a form of compass needles floating and rotating needles. Persian sailors obtained from the Chinese compass, and then trade them. In 1877, William Thomson, 1st Baron Kelvin of Largs (Lord Kelvin) to make a compass that can be accepted by all countries. By fixing errors arising from magnetic deviation due to the increasing use of iron in ship architecture. *** [SEPTI | PIKIRAN RAKYAT 08112012]

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