The concept of “compass” has been known to every person since childhood, even at the lessons of natural history (now - the world around him), primary school teachers introduce this subject. Further study of the device is already taking place in more detail in high school at geography classes. Compass is a device that facilitates terrain orientation.
A school magnetic compass is a round plastic box with a steel pin in the center, and a magnetized arrow rotates on it. The whole structure is closed by glass, and under the arrow-pointer there is a brake lever, which prevents its mobility inoperative.
Main functions
Few people know that the first compass was created in China, and in Europe it appeared in the XI – XII centuries. Prior to this, orientation on the ground took place only by natural factors.
If you ask a person what a compass is for, then, perhaps, in addition to the tasks of determining the cardinal directions and orientation on the ground, he will not be able to name anything else.
Of course, a landmark on the terrain is the main function of the compass.
Compass as an orientation tool
In order for the compass to help you navigate the terrain correctly, you must always remember the conditions for its use.
1. It is necessary to remove the device from the clamp, which does not allow its arrow to rotate freely.
2. The arrow should automatically point north. To do this, turn so that 0 and 360 are connected with the direction of the arrow, which points to the north.
3. It is necessary in accordance with the map of the area to choose the direction for movement, calculating the angle along which you need to move.
4. After use, the compass must be locked again.
Profession and Compass
Will everyone be able to answer questions about why a man needs a compass and in what professions he is an indispensable assistant? If people still give some answers to the first question, then the second one is already having problems.
Such professions as a geologist, pilot and sailor are inextricably linked with knowledge of the compass, since in deserts, at sea and in the sky there are no special landmarks. Of course, I would like to note the fact that they use not the primitive compasses that the school introduces us to, but with special ones created for their professions. There are several types of them:
- Electromagnetic - to use it requires high speeds.
- Compass aviation.
- The gyrocompass is used in control and navigation systems of large vessels. A feature of this device is that it points to the geographic North Pole, and not to the magnetic one.
- Electronic compass. Created on the principle of determining the exact coordinates through communication with satellite systems.
- Astronomical compass. Determines the position of the stars.
Which option to choose? It all depends on the conditions under which the device will be used.
Travel and compass
Going on a trip, do not forget to bring everything you need with you. To the question of why you need a compass when traveling, the answer is banal and simple: to return home.
If you are going to another country, such as Egypt, you will want to see the desert. What can happen if you lag behind the excursion group, it's scary to think. A compass can help each of such a disaster.
Also, this technical tool can help out and lost in the forest or endless fields. After all, while traveling, no one knows where and when he can get lost or lost.
Hiking is also not without a compass. Why do you need a compass for a tourist? With the help of this simple device, you can feel confident in an unfamiliar area. Because a tourist can always choose the right direction.
In the modern world, a novelty for travel lovers has appeared - these are devices with built-in GPS. The only condition: before you go on a trip, try it in a familiar area to know exactly how long it is designed to work without recharging.
Additional features in smartphones
In the process of developing modern technology, smartphones with a built-in compass function have appeared. Why do I need a compass in the iPhone? The phone has become an integral part of human life. In the literal sense of the word, people do not part with their cell phones, day or night. Modern telephones include the functions of a daily planner, clock, alarm clock, and a calendar. A smartphone is the same phone, only it is more functional. Let’s figure out what a watch, calendar and compass are for.
Rarely, but still there are such situations in a person’s life, when he may get lost, and in this case, of course, the main thing is not to panic. A simple set consisting of a compass, a clock and a calendar will help you get out of a difficult situation. The clock and calendar will be helpers in order not to get lost in time in case you have to get out of an unfamiliar place for a long time. A compass will orient on the terrain and help in choosing the right direction of movement.
A bit about geography
Geography is a natural science that studies the Earth. In the lessons of this discipline, students not only learn why a compass is needed in geography, but also receive answers to questions about its structure and application rules. And also learn to read and draw maps of the area using this device.
To the question of what the compass is for, one can safely answer as follows.
Each person needs it in order to find himself in a difficult life situation and easily and simply determine the direction of the right movement.
So that the compass can help out in a difficult situation, it is important to remember the following rules:
- Do not use the device near metal objects and electromagnetic radiation.
- Mineral deposits can cause the compass needle to deflect.
- The presence of magnetic storms distorts the Earth's magnetic field.
- Do not use the device near another compass.
- Using a technical tool, stop and try not to change the position of your body.
Conclusion
In conclusion, it is worth saying that each person needs to learn how to use a compass. The choice of devices is quite large. Everyone will be able to choose a device in accordance with their financial capabilities. And let him become a real helper.