How to Make a
Magnetic Compass
The magnetic
compass is an
ancient
navigational tool
used to indicate
the four cardinal
directions: north,
south, ea
(
more)
How to Make a Magnetic Compass
The magnetic compass is an ancient navigational tool used to indicate the four cardinal directions: north, south, east and west. It's composed of a magnetized needle that aligns itself with the earth's magnetic field to point north. If you find yourself lost without a compass, you can easily make your own using a piece of magnetized metal and a bowl of water.
1. Decide what to use for your compass needle. A compass needle can be made from any piece of metal that can be magnetized. A sewing needle is a straightforward, practical choice, especially since it's an item you'd normally find in a first aid or survival kit that you might have on hand on a backpacking trip. You could also try these other "needles":
- paperclip
- razor blade
- safety pin
- hairpin
2. Choose a needle "magnetizer." You can magnetize your needle using a variety of methods: tapping it with a piece of steel or iron, rubbing it with a magnet, or rubbing it on...
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