Compass needle deviation (11) Crossword Clue Answer
Answer: DECLINATION
The crossword clue Compass needle deviation (11) has the answer DECLINATION. Compass needle deviation, also known as magnetic declination, refers to the angle between true north (geographic north) and magnetic north (the direction in which a magnetic compass needle points). The Earth’s magnetic field is not perfectly aligned with its geographic poles, so the compass needle points toward the magnetic pole, which is located at a different position from the geographic North Pole.
Understanding the Clue Structure
Navigation Science Reference
The crossword clue "compass needle deviation" directly describes declination, which represents the angle between magnetic north (where a compass needle points) and true north (geographic north pole direction). This magnetic variation affects navigation accuracy and requires correction for precise positioning.
Technical Precision
Declination varies by geographic location and changes over time due to shifting magnetic fields. Professional navigators, surveyors, and orienteering enthusiasts must account for this compass needle deviation to maintain accurate bearings and prevent navigation errors.
Related Crossword Clues and Variations
Navigation-Themed Alternatives
- "Magnetic variation angle (11)" - DECLINATION
- "True north difference (11)" - DECLINATION
- "Compass correction factor (11)" - DECLINATION
- "Magnetic bearing adjustment (11)" - DECLINATION
Compass needle deviation (11) - 7 Little Words - FAQs
Q: How often does magnetic declination change?
A: Declination changes gradually over decades due to magnetic pole movement. Navigation charts receive periodic updates to reflect these secular variations.
Q: Why don't digital compasses show declination automatically?
A: Many modern digital compasses and smartphone apps do include automatic declination correction based on GPS location data and current magnetic models.
Q: What happens if you ignore declination in navigation?
A: Ignoring magnetic declination can cause significant navigation errors, potentially leading to missing destinations by several miles over long distances.
Q: Is declination the same worldwide?
A: No, declination varies significantly by geographic location and requires location-specific correction values for accurate navigation.
