Multiple choice

On what headings would the magnetic compass not show acceleration errors?

  1. North

  2. South

  3. Both (1) and (2)

  4. None of these
Reveal answer Fill a bubble to check yourself
C Correct answer
Explanation

Magnetic compass acceleration errors are nonexistent on North and South headings because the acceleration forces are parallel to the magnetic dip lines. On these headings, the compass card tilts only forward or backward, not sideways, so the acceleration doesn't cause lateral displacement that would be misinterpreted as a turn. This makes North and South the only headings free from acceleration error.

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