2007-05-13 15:18:04 · 4 answers · asked by hazelleyes882006 1 in Science & Mathematics ➔ Earth Sciences & Geology
It is commonly called a "compass needle" since most, but NOT all, compasses use a magnetized pointer that is fairly long & thin -- not unlike a needle. I suppose that you can also call it a magnetic POINTER if you wished.
(Note: GNOMON refers to a sundial pointer but NOT to a compass needle).
For a good source of info on compasses, take a look at the wikipedia link (below). The page includes a lot of history & many other details on compasses -- including instructions for building a simple one.
en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Compass
(To clarify a statement made by the previous answer)...
Aclinic line is another name for the Magnetic equator. It is an imaginary line (near the Equator) at which the attraction of both magnetic poles is equal. Along the aclinic line, a compass needle swinging vertically will settle in a horizontal position. (For a good picture of this line, refer to the 3rd link that I've got listed under Sources).
yourdictionary.com/ahd
/m/m0029500.html
media.tiscali.co.uk/images/feeds/hutchinson/ency/c00013.jpg
2007-05-13 15:22:19 · answer #1 · answered by WhytRabbitt 1 · 1⤊ 0⤋
The answer to your question is in your question. It is properly called the needle. All the rest of the compass parts are referenced on this link.
2007-05-14 09:36:08 · answer #2 · answered by usmcskitch 1 · 0⤊ 0⤋
I think it is acceptable to call it the needle. The needle of a magnetic compass always aligns with the 'aclinic line' , which is the magnetic equator.
2007-05-13 22:22:15 · answer #3 · answered by Lady Geologist 7 · 0⤊ 0⤋
the gnomon
also the designation for the pointer on a sundial
2007-05-14 00:13:34 · answer #4 · answered by emagidson 6 · 0⤊ 1⤋