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GCSE Combined Science · key term
A small compass whose freely turning magnetic needle shows the direction of the magnetic field at its position.
Used by AQA and Edexcel
Specification 6.7.1.2, 6.7.2.1 · Paper 6
A small compass containing a freely turning magnetic needle, used to find the direction of a magnetic field at a point.
Revise: Magnetic FieldsMoving a small plotting compass around a magnet therefore lets you trace the changing field direction.
A small compass whose magnetic needle aligns with the magnetic field; its north-seeking end indicates the field direction.
Paper 5, Paper 6
Revise: Magnets, magnetic fields and compassesA plotting compass contains a small magnetic needle that can turn freely. Its north-seeking end points along the local magnetic field. One compass reading therefore gives the field direction at one position; moving the compass lets you trace the field's shape.
Describe using a plotting compass, not mathematical drawing compasses. State how you mark the needle’s direction, move the compass and repeat.
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