Question

Fill in the blanks with appropriate words to complete the sentence.
                  A__________ is an instrument used to find out main directions.

Answer 1

Hint: The instrument used for finding direction is also used for navigation or surveying. It is the main device for finding direction. It may operate on magnetic or gyroscopic principles or by assuming the direction of the Sun or a star.

Complete Step by Step Answer:
-A Compass is an instrument used to find out main directions.

-A compass is a device that is used to show direction relative to the geographic cardinal directions.

-There are four directions north, south, east, and west on the compass face.

-The intermediate directions are northeast, northwest, southeast and southwest and are also known as intercardinal directions. These directions are in between the cardinal directions.

-The magnetic compass was a significant improvement in navigation. It enabled mariners to determine their direction. It uses a magnetic needle that can turn freely so that it always points to the north pole of the Earth's magnetic field.

-Very early compasses were made of a magnetized needle fastened to a piece of wood that floated freely in a dish of water. As the needle would settle, the marked end would point toward magnetic north.

Note: China was the first to invent the compass. It was used by navigators in the 11th and 12th century.