2007-12-26 04:50:39 · 4 answers · asked by mohd a 1 in Science & Mathematics ➔ Earth Sciences & Geology
If we can find the magnetic field dinsity at some point at the earth, then I think it is possible to find the lait/long.
2007-12-26 08:34:37 · update #1
Longitude and latitude are human designations, based on the rotation of the Earth (to locate the equator and therefore 0 latitude) and a completely random choice for 0 longitude (Greenwich, England).
The magnetic field of the Earth does not correspond to our geographical designations, so the closest you can get is within 12 degrees of the North Geographic Pole (the North Magnetic Pole is at 82 degrees North, they are not at the same location).
2007-12-26 07:03:58 · answer #1 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
Do you mean "latitude" instead of "altitude"?
I do not think one can measure the lat/long using the magnetic field.
Altitude can be measured using a barometer (air pressure decreases as one goes higher), but this can be subject to weather fronts decreasing or increasing air pressure.
2007-12-26 07:23:48 · answer #2 · answered by Wayner 7 · 0⤊ 0⤋
The field is much to variable for that. Trust me, if it would work, they would have done just that in the 18th century. In any case, the field has roughly cylindrical symmetry... that alone should tell you that it could not be done even in the best of circumstances.
2007-12-26 10:48:03 · answer #3 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
Unless someone has a better answer, I say it can't be done. At all, no how, no way.
2007-12-26 06:24:24 · answer #4 · answered by Thomas E 7 · 2⤊ 0⤋