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Question
part i - general science
question 4 of 15
why does a compass needle point towards the north?
a earths electromagnetic field
b north stars gravitational pull
c the moons position aligns the needle.
d satellites in space align the needle.
if b is your answer, click the next button. otherwise, select another answer.
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A compass needle is a small magnet. The Earth has a natural electromagnetic field (a magnetic field) that exerts a force on the magnetic compass needle, aligning it with the Earth's magnetic north - south direction. The North Star's gravitational pull is not relevant for compass alignment (gravitational pull is different from magnetic force), the moon's position does not align the compass needle, and satellites in space also do not have a role in aligning the compass needle. So the correct answer is related to the Earth's electromagnetic field.
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A. Earth's electromagnetic field