{"id":264,"date":"2026-06-29T09:04:20","date_gmt":"2026-06-29T09:04:20","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.jlabindia.com\/blogs\/?p=264"},"modified":"2026-06-29T09:04:43","modified_gmt":"2026-06-29T09:04:43","slug":"how-does-a-magnetic-compass-work-in-physics-teaching","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.jlabindia.com\/blogs\/physics-laboratory-equipment\/how-does-a-magnetic-compass-work-in-physics-teaching\/","title":{"rendered":"How does a magnetic compass work in physics teaching?"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<style>\n.ai-badge-wrap {\n  display: flex;\n  flex-wrap: wrap;\n  gap: 10px;\n  align-items: center;\n  padding: 10px 0;\n  font-family: -apple-system, BlinkMacSystemFont, 'Segoe UI', sans-serif;\n}\n.ai-badge {\n  display: inline-flex;\n  align-items: center;\n  gap: 7px;\n  padding: 6px 16px;\n  border-radius: 999px;\n  font-size: 14px;\n  font-weight: 600;\n  border: 2px solid transparent;\n  text-decoration: none;\n}\n.ai-badge:hover {\n  transform: translateY(-1px);\n  box-shadow: 0 4px 12px rgba(0,0,0,0.12);\n}\n.ai-badge-chatgpt { border-color: #10a37f; color: #10a37f; }\n.ai-badge-perplexity { border-color: #6c47ff; color: #6c47ff; }\n.ai-badge-googleai { border-color: #1a73e8; color: #1a73e8; }\n<\/style>\n\n<div class=\"ai-badge-wrap\">\n\n<a href=\"https:\/\/chat.openai.com\/?q=Summarize%20the%20content%20at%20https%3A%2F%2Fwww.jlabindia.com%2Fblogs%2Fphysics-laboratory-equipment%2Fhow-does-a-magnetic-compass-work-in-physics-teaching%2F\" target=\"_blank\" class=\"ai-badge ai-badge-chatgpt\">\n<svg width=\"15\" height=\"15\" viewBox=\"0 0 41 41\" fill=\"none\">\n<path d=\"M37.532 16.87a9.963 9.963 0 0 0-.856-8.184 10.078 10.078 0 0 0-10.855-4.835 9.964 9.964 0 0 0-6.239-3.954 10.078 10.078 0 0 0-10.177 4.923 9.964 9.964 0 0 0-6.675 4.804 10.08 10.08 0 0 0 1.24 11.817 9.965 9.965 0 0 0 .856 8.185 10.079 10.079 0 0 0 10.855 4.835 9.965 9.965 0 0 0 6.239 3.954 10.078 10.078 0 0 0 10.177-4.923 9.966 9.966 0 0 0 6.675-4.804 10.079 10.079 0 0 0-1.24-11.818z\" fill=\"currentColor\"\/>\n<\/svg>\nChatGPT\n<\/a>\n\n<a href=\"https:\/\/www.perplexity.ai\/search?q=Summarize%20the%20content%20at%20https%3A%2F%2Fwww.jlabindia.com%2Fblogs%2Fphysics-laboratory-equipment%2Fhow-does-a-magnetic-compass-work-in-physics-teaching%2F\" target=\"_blank\" class=\"ai-badge ai-badge-perplexity\">\n<svg width=\"15\" height=\"15\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" fill=\"none\" stroke=\"currentColor\" stroke-width=\"2\">\n<path d=\"M12 2L2 7l10 5 10-5-10-5z\"\/>\n<path d=\"M2 17l10 5 10-5\"\/>\n<path d=\"M2 12l10 5 10-5\"\/>\n<\/svg>\nPerplexity\n<\/a>\n\n<a href=\"https:\/\/www.google.com\/search?udm=50&#038;aep=11&#038;q=Summarize%20the%20content%20at%20https%3A%2F%2Fwww.jlabindia.com%2Fblogs%2Fphysics-laboratory-equipment%2Fhow-does-a-magnetic-compass-work-in-physics-teaching%2F\" target=\"_blank\" class=\"ai-badge ai-badge-googleai\">\n<svg width=\"15\" height=\"15\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\">\n<path fill=\"#4285F4\" d=\"M22.56 12.25c0-.78-.07-1.53-.2-2.25H12v4.26h5.92c-.26 1.37-1.04 2.53-2.21 3.31v2.77h3.57c2.08-1.92 3.28-4.74 3.28-8.09z\"\/>\n<path fill=\"#34A853\" d=\"M12 23c2.97 0 5.46-.98 7.28-2.66l-3.57-2.77c-.98.66-2.23 1.06-3.71 1.06-2.86 0-5.29-1.93-6.16-4.53H2.18v2.84C3.99 20.53 7.7 23 12 23z\"\/>\n<path fill=\"#FBBC05\" d=\"M5.84 14.09c-.22-.66-.35-1.36-.35-2.09s.13-1.43.35-2.09V7.07H2.18C1.43 8.55 1 10.22 1 12s.43 3.45 1.18 4.93l2.85-2.22.81-.62z\"\/>\n<path fill=\"#EA4335\" d=\"M12 5.38c1.62 0 3.06.56 4.21 1.64l3.15-3.15C17.45 2.09 14.97 1 12 1 7.7 1 3.99 3.47 2.18 7.07l3.66 2.84c.87-2.6 3.3-4.53 6.16-4.53z\"\/>\n<\/svg>\nGoogle AI\n<\/a>\n\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Audience note: <\/strong>This guide serves school physics teachers, CBSE\/NCERT practical coordinators, lab procurement teams, distributors, importers, university demonstrators and TVET buyers.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>A magnetic compass is a freely pivoted magnetized needle that aligns itself with the local magnetic field. <\/strong>In physics teaching, a compass helps students see invisible magnetic-field direction: the needle points along Earth&#8217;s magnetic field in open space, deflects near a bar magnet, and rotates near a current-carrying conductor. For procurement, Jlab India lists a <a href=\"https:\/\/www.jlabindia.com\/plotting-compass-single-glass-face\">Plotting Compass, Single Glass Face<\/a> with product code JLI-PLE-11435 and 16 mm diameter, and also offers magnetism apparatus through the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.jlabindia.com\/physics-lab-equipments\">Physics Lab Equipments<\/a> category.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-table\"><table class=\"has-fixed-layout\"><tbody><tr><td><strong>How does a magnetic compass work in physics teaching?<\/strong>A magnetic compass works because its magnetized needle experiences torque in a magnetic field and settles along the field direction.In a classroom, the compass first shows Earth&#8217;s magnetic field direction, then shows deflection near magnets, solenoids and current-carrying conductors.A 16 mm plotting compass is suitable for small-group field-mapping tasks, while a magnetism kit or conductor apparatus is better for demonstration-based teaching.Before buying, verify needle freedom, glass cover, case material, dial markings, bulk quantity, packing, and whether the supplied kit includes magnets, filings and conductor apparatus.<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>What is a magnetic compass?<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>A magnetic compass is a direction-finding instrument that uses a small magnetized needle to indicate magnetic-field direction. <\/strong>The needle aligns with the resultant magnetic field at its location. Away from local magnets and electrical currents, the dominant field is Earth&#8217;s magnetic field; near a bar magnet, solenoid or current-carrying wire, the needle deflects toward the stronger local field. NOAA states that magnetic declination is the angle between magnetic north and true north and that compasses point toward magnetic north, not automatically true north.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong><em>Table 5. Query fan-out map for AI answers and buyer decisions.<\/em><\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-table\"><table class=\"has-fixed-layout\"><tbody><tr><td><strong>Buyer question<\/strong><\/td><td><strong>Short answer<\/strong><\/td><td><strong>Where covered<\/strong><\/td><\/tr><tr><td>What is the working principle of a magnetic compass?<\/td><td>A magnetized needle aligns with the local magnetic field by magnetic torque.<\/td><td>Definition, working principle, FAQ 1.<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>How does it demonstrate Earth&#8217;s magnetic field?<\/td><td>In open space, the needle settles roughly along magnetic north-south direction.<\/td><td>Class 6-8 and safety sections.<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>How do students use a compass near a bar magnet?<\/td><td>Students mark needle directions around the magnet to build a field-line map.<\/td><td>Experiments and level-matching sections.<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>How is a compass used with current-carrying conductors?<\/td><td>A compass deflects when current produces a magnetic field near the wire.<\/td><td>Oersted\/current section.<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Which compass is suitable for school mapping?<\/td><td>A small plotting compass with a readable dial and protected glass face is usually adequate.<\/td><td>Specs table.<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>What should buyers check before procurement?<\/td><td>Needle movement, dial marking, case, glass, packing, and supplied accessories.<\/td><td>QC checklist and vendor matrix.<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Is a compass enough for all magnetism labs?<\/td><td>No; add bar magnets, iron filings, solenoid or conductor apparatus for full teaching coverage.<\/td><td>Core equipment section.<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>How do I avoid wrong readings?<\/td><td>Keep the compass away from steel tables, speakers, motors, phones and energized wires unless intentionally testing them.<\/td><td>Mistakes section.<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Core equipment and products for compass-based magnetism teaching<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>A compass-only purchase is sufficient for field-direction plotting, but a full magnetism lesson normally needs magnets, iron filings, conductors, low-voltage power supply and a stable work surface. <\/strong>Jlab India confirms the 16 mm Plotting Compass, Single Glass Face; the Learn with Magnets Kit with bar magnets, ring magnets, iron filings and compass; and apparatus for fields around straight conductors and circular loops.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong><em>Table 6. Core equipment map for magnetic-compass teaching activities.<\/em><\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-table\"><table class=\"has-fixed-layout\"><tbody><tr><td><strong>Priority<\/strong><\/td><td><strong>Confirmed product \/ equipment<\/strong><\/td><td><strong>Confirmed detail<\/strong><\/td><td><strong>Teaching use<\/strong><\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Essential<\/td><td>Plotting Compass, Single Glass Face<\/td><td>Product code JLI-PLE-11435; 16 mm diameter; dial marked with cardinal and ordinal points; one-side glass face in aluminium case.<\/td><td>Earth-field direction, magnet polarity, field-line mapping.<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Essential<\/td><td>Bar magnets \/ horseshoe magnets<\/td><td>Use as magnetic-field source; dimensions and grade to be verified by RFQ.<\/td><td>Attraction\/repulsion, poles, field mapping.<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Required<\/td><td>Learn with Magnets Kit<\/td><td>Product code SCL-PLE-11495; components include bar magnets, ring magnets, iron filings, compass and accessories.<\/td><td>Complete school-level magnetism kit.<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Required<\/td><td>Magnetic Field Along Straight Conductor<\/td><td>Product code SCL-PLE-11448; used with a magnetic compass or probe to detect magnetic-field direction.<\/td><td>Oersted-type experiment and right-hand thumb rule.<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Recommended<\/td><td>Magnetic Field Along Circular Loop<\/td><td>Product code SCL-PLE-11447; power requirement shown as 0-12 V DC and loop diameter 10 cm to 20 cm customizable.<\/td><td>Current-loop magnetic field study.<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Recommended<\/td><td>Magnetic Field Apparatus<\/td><td>Product code SCL-PLE-11580; three coils of 5, 10 and 20 turns; supports iron filings or compass sensors.<\/td><td>Turns-current-field demonstrations.<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Recommended<\/td><td>Solenoid Model<\/td><td>Jlab India states low-voltage DC source, solenoid coil, power terminals and base stand.<\/td><td>Magnetic field inside\/around coil.<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Specs to check before buying a magnetic compass for physics labs<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>A school compass should be selected for needle freedom, repeatable pointing, readable markings and durable handling rather than for decorative appearance. <\/strong>For tender use, ask the vendor to confirm product code, diameter in mm, case material, glass cover, dial marking, quantity per set and packing method before purchase order approval.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong><em>Table 7. Magnetic compass purchase specification table.<\/em><\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-table\"><table class=\"has-fixed-layout\"><tbody><tr><td><strong>Specification checkpoint<\/strong><\/td><td><strong>Recommended RFQ wording<\/strong><\/td><td><strong>Why it matters<\/strong><\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Diameter<\/td><td>Confirm 16 mm diameter if selecting JLI-PLE-11435, or specify alternate diameter in mm.<\/td><td>Affects visibility and table-group use.<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Dial marking<\/td><td>Dial must show cardinal and ordinal directions clearly.<\/td><td>Students must identify N, S, E, W and intermediate directions.<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Needle movement<\/td><td>Needle must rotate freely and return consistently without sticking.<\/td><td>Sticking needle produces wrong field maps.<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Case \/ cover<\/td><td>Confirm aluminium case and glass face or equivalent protective construction.<\/td><td>Protects needle during repeated lab use.<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Needle visibility<\/td><td>Confirm contrast of needle and dial under classroom lighting.<\/td><td>Improves group observation and error reduction.<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Magnetic interference<\/td><td>Package and store away from strong magnets, motors and steel objects.<\/td><td>Prevents shipping\/storage effects and false readings.<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Accessories<\/td><td>State whether magnets, iron filings, conductors, power supply and worksheets are included or excluded.<\/td><td>Prevents incomplete lab-kit supply.<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Documentation<\/td><td>Request catalogue page, product code, compliance sheet and packing list.<\/td><td>Needed for institutional procurement and acceptance.<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Matching compass experiments to class level<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>The same compass can serve different learning levels, but the experiment design should change with student maturity and safety controls. <\/strong>Younger learners need qualitative observation; senior and college learners can compare angle, distance, current direction and field geometry.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong><em>Table 8. Matching compass use to curriculum level.<\/em><\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-table\"><table class=\"has-fixed-layout\"><tbody><tr><td><strong>Institution level<\/strong><\/td><td><strong>Recommended activity<\/strong><\/td><td><strong>Equipment needed<\/strong><\/td><td><strong>Assessment output<\/strong><\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Class 6-8<\/td><td>Find classroom north-south direction and compare with school map orientation.<\/td><td>Plotting compass, paper, pencil.<\/td><td>Labelled direction sketch.<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Class 9-10<\/td><td>Map field lines around a bar magnet using several compass positions.<\/td><td>Plotting compasses, bar magnet, paper.<\/td><td>Field-line diagram with arrows.<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Class 11-12<\/td><td>Observe compass deflection near a straight current-carrying conductor.<\/td><td>Compass, straight conductor apparatus, low-voltage DC supply.<\/td><td>Direction-change observation when current reverses.<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>College<\/td><td>Compare field direction around circular loop or solenoid.<\/td><td>Compass\/probe, circular loop or solenoid, regulated DC supply.<\/td><td>Data table by position\/current.<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>University \/ TVET<\/td><td>Use compass as qualitative field-direction sensor before sensor-based measurement.<\/td><td>Compass, magnetic field apparatus, sensor where available.<\/td><td>Lab note linking visual and quantitative readings.<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>How does a magnetic compass demonstrate Earth&#8217;s magnetic field?<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>A compass demonstrates Earth&#8217;s magnetic field because the needle aligns with the local horizontal component of Earth&#8217;s geomagnetic field. <\/strong>NOAA explains that compass needles point in the direction of magnetic field lines and that compass direction is usually different from geographic true north. For school experiments, this means students should treat the compass as a magnetic north indicator and should not claim exact geographic north unless declination is considered.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong><em>Table 9. Demonstration experiments using a magnetic compass.<\/em><\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-table\"><table class=\"has-fixed-layout\"><tbody><tr><td><strong>Experiment<\/strong><\/td><td><strong>Procedure summary<\/strong><\/td><td><strong>Expected observation<\/strong><\/td><td><strong>Procurement implication<\/strong><\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Earth-field direction<\/td><td>Place compass away from metal\/electrical items; mark N-S line on paper.<\/td><td>Needle settles along magnetic direction.<\/td><td>Useful for every class set.<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Bar magnet field map<\/td><td>Move compass around magnet and mark the needle direction at each point.<\/td><td>Arrows form curved field pattern from one pole region to the other.<\/td><td>Needs several compasses for group work.<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Oersted observation<\/td><td>Place compass near a straight conductor; switch current on\/off and reverse polarity.<\/td><td>Needle deflects when current flows; direction changes with current reversal.<\/td><td>Needs low-voltage power supply and conductor apparatus.<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Circular loop field<\/td><td>Place compass at positions along\/near a current loop.<\/td><td>Direction changes with position and current direction.<\/td><td>Use apparatus with clear scale and safe terminals.<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Solenoid field<\/td><td>Use compass at different points around a solenoid.<\/td><td>Compass shows a field pattern similar to a bar magnet.<\/td><td>Use after students know bar magnet mapping.<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Safety requirements for compass and magnetism experiments<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Compass experiments are low-risk when used only with permanent magnets, but electrical magnetism demonstrations require controlled low-voltage practice. <\/strong>Use insulated terminals, supervised connections, short current-on periods, and separation from mains wiring. Avoid heating coils by leaving current on continuously.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong><em>Table 10. Safety controls for compass-based magnetism experiments.<\/em><\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-table\"><table class=\"has-fixed-layout\"><tbody><tr><td><strong>Risk point<\/strong><\/td><td><strong>Required control<\/strong><\/td><td><strong>Buyer \/ teacher check<\/strong><\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Glass face breakage<\/td><td>Store compasses in partitioned trays or foam slots.<\/td><td>Reject cracked glass during acceptance.<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>False readings from metal tables<\/td><td>Use wooden\/plastic bench or paper spacer away from steel objects.<\/td><td>Test one compass on the actual lab bench.<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Needle demagnetization or sticking<\/td><td>Avoid impact, strong magnets and dusty storage.<\/td><td>Check free rotation before practical.<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Electrical overheating<\/td><td>Use low-voltage DC supply and switch off between observations.<\/td><td>Check conductor\/coil temperature.<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Short circuit risk<\/td><td>Use insulated wires and proper sockets.<\/td><td>No bare mains connection in school setup.<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Iron filing contamination<\/td><td>Keep filings in sealed container; avoid filings entering compass case.<\/td><td>Clean and pack separately.<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Budget and RFQ notes for magnetic compass procurement<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Compass price should be treated as RFQ-dependent because quantity, case material, import\/export packing, accessories and documentation change the final quotation. <\/strong>Do not publish fixed price bands unless Jlab India provides a current catalogue or quotation. For institutional tenders, ask for per-piece and per-kit pricing separately.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong><em>Table 11. RFQ note table for compass procurement.<\/em><\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-table\"><table class=\"has-fixed-layout\"><tbody><tr><td><strong>RFQ line item<\/strong><\/td><td><strong>Ask the supplier to confirm<\/strong><\/td><td><strong>Why it changes cost<\/strong><\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Plotting compass<\/td><td>Product code, 16 mm or alternate diameter, case material, glass cover, quantity.<\/td><td>Per-piece item; bulk packaging matters.<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Magnetism kit<\/td><td>Whether bar magnets, ring magnets, iron filings, compass and accessories are included.<\/td><td>Kit completeness changes landed cost.<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Electrical apparatus<\/td><td>Power requirement, terminals, coil\/wire details, conductor frame dimensions.<\/td><td>Requires safety and electrical documentation.<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Documentation<\/td><td>Catalogue, datasheet, packing list, compliance sheet, COO\/IEC\/GST where applicable.<\/td><td>Tender documentation adds processing requirements.<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Packing<\/td><td>Individual boxes, master carton, export packing, carton marking, fragile labels.<\/td><td>Compass glass and needle need protection.<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Freight\/duty\/GST<\/td><td>Shipping mode, delivery address, incoterm or domestic GST handling.<\/td><td>Affects total landed cost.<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Original proof asset: compass pre-dispatch and acceptance checklist<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Use this checklist before dispatch and again during buyer acceptance. <\/strong>It turns a small, low-cost item into a controlled procurement item by testing the actual failure points: stuck needles, unreadable dials, cracked covers, missing kit accessories and magnetic interference.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong><em>Table 12. Original pre-dispatch and acceptance checklist for magnetic compass lots.<\/em><\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-table\"><table class=\"has-fixed-layout\"><tbody><tr><td><strong>Step<\/strong><\/td><td><strong>Inspection point<\/strong><\/td><td><strong>Pass condition<\/strong><\/td><td><strong>Record required<\/strong><\/td><\/tr><tr><td>1<\/td><td>Product identity<\/td><td>Product code and description match PO: Plotting Compass, Single Glass Face, JLI-PLE-11435 where ordered.<\/td><td>Catalogue\/packing note.<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>2<\/td><td>Diameter check<\/td><td>Diameter matches ordered value; confirmed product page states 16 mm for JLI-PLE-11435.<\/td><td>Random sample measurement.<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>3<\/td><td>Dial legibility<\/td><td>Cardinal and ordinal points readable without smearing.<\/td><td>Visual check.<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>4<\/td><td>Needle freedom<\/td><td>Needle rotates freely and settles consistently after gentle rotation.<\/td><td>Sample acceptance tick.<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>5<\/td><td>Glass\/case condition<\/td><td>No cracked glass, loose cover, bent case or sharp edge.<\/td><td>Rejection count if any.<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>6<\/td><td>Magnetic response<\/td><td>Needle deflects near a test magnet and recovers when magnet is removed.<\/td><td>Batch sample observation.<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>7<\/td><td>Kit completeness<\/td><td>If supplied as a magnetism kit, confirm magnets, filings, compass and accessories.<\/td><td>Kit checklist.<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>8<\/td><td>Electrical accessory safety<\/td><td>If supplied with conductor\/loop\/solenoid apparatus, terminals and insulation are intact.<\/td><td>Visual\/electrical check.<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>9<\/td><td>Packing protection<\/td><td>Individual partitioning prevents glass-to-glass impact and needle shock.<\/td><td>Packing photo.<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>10<\/td><td>Carton marking<\/td><td>Carton includes item name, quantity, fragile note and PO reference.<\/td><td>Dispatch label.<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>11<\/td><td>Documentation<\/td><td>Datasheet\/catalogue, invoice, packing list and tender documents included where required.<\/td><td>Document checklist.<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>12<\/td><td>Buyer acceptance<\/td><td>Buyer repeats needle freedom, dial, and damage check within receiving window.<\/td><td>GRN\/acceptance note.<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Vendor evaluation matrix for magnetic compass and magnetism kits<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>A supplier should be evaluated on specification clarity, batch consistency, documentation and packing, not only unit price. <\/strong>This matrix is suitable for school chains, distributors and tender buyers comparing multiple quotes.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong><em>Table 13. Weighted vendor evaluation matrix.<\/em><\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-table\"><table class=\"has-fixed-layout\"><tbody><tr><td><strong>Evaluation criterion<\/strong><\/td><td><strong>Suggested weight<\/strong><\/td><td><strong>Evidence to request<\/strong><\/td><td><strong>Reject if<\/strong><\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Confirmed product match<\/td><td>20%<\/td><td>Product code, dimensions, product image\/catalogue.<\/td><td>Item description differs from PO.<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Needle\/dial quality<\/td><td>20%<\/td><td>Sample photo or pre-dispatch QC report.<\/td><td>Needle sticks or dial unreadable.<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Kit completeness<\/td><td>15%<\/td><td>Kit list with magnet\/filings\/conductor accessories.<\/td><td>Accessories not listed clearly.<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Safety and usability<\/td><td>15%<\/td><td>Low-voltage apparatus notes, insulation, classroom-use guidance.<\/td><td>Unsafe electrical ambiguity.<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Packing and dispatch<\/td><td>15%<\/td><td>Carton plan, partitioning, fragile handling, export packing if applicable.<\/td><td>No glass\/needle protection.<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Documentation and support<\/td><td>10%<\/td><td>Datasheet, catalogue, compliance sheet, invoice, packing list.<\/td><td>Missing tender documents.<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Commercial terms<\/td><td>5%<\/td><td>GST\/freight\/duty\/warranty clearly stated.<\/td><td>Ambiguous landed cost.<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Common mistakes and pitfalls<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Mistake 1: Using a compass on a steel table<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>A steel table can distort the local magnetic field and make students believe the compass is faulty. Use a wooden or non-magnetic surface for field mapping.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Mistake 2: Treating magnetic north as true north<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>A compass points toward magnetic north. NOAA notes that magnetic declination changes by location and time; use declination only when a true-north claim is needed.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Mistake 3: Buying only compasses for an electromagnetism practical<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Compasses show direction, but experiments on current need conductor apparatus, solenoid, low-voltage DC supply and safe connectors.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Mistake 4: Ignoring stuck needles during receiving<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>A visually clean compass can still fail if the pivot is damaged. Rotate and settle-test random samples before accepting a bulk supply.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Mistake 5: Packing compasses loose with magnets<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Loose magnets can affect compass needles and glass can crack in transit. Pack compasses in partitioned trays and separate strong magnets.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Frequently Asked Questions<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Which magnetic compass is best for school physics experiments?<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>A small plotting compass with a readable dial, protected glass face and freely moving needle is suitable for most school field-mapping experiments. Jlab India lists a Plotting Compass, Single Glass Face with product code JLI-PLE-11435 and 16 mm diameter. For class demonstrations, pair it with bar magnets, a magnetism kit or conductor apparatus.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>How does a magnetic compass show Earth&#8217;s magnetic field?<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>A magnetic compass shows Earth&#8217;s magnetic field by aligning its magnetized needle with the local magnetic field direction. In normal classroom conditions away from local magnets and currents, the needle settles along magnetic north-south direction. For exact geographic orientation, account for local magnetic declination.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Are magnetic compass experiments safe for students?<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Magnetic compass experiments are safe when students use small magnets and non-mains electrical setups under supervision. Keep compasses away from strong magnets, motors, phones and steel tables unless those items are part of the experiment. For current-carrying conductor experiments, use a regulated low-voltage DC supply and switch off between observations.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>How much does a magnetic compass cost for school procurement?<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Magnetic compass cost is RFQ-dependent because diameter, case material, glass cover, quantity, packing and documentation affect the final quote. Buyers should request unit price, bulk price, GST\/freight\/duty terms and whether accessories such as magnets or iron filings are included. Do not publish fixed prices without a current quotation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>How do I maintain plotting compasses in a physics lab?<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Maintain plotting compasses by storing them in a dry partitioned box, keeping them away from strong magnets and checking needle movement before every practical. Wipe the glass gently, avoid dropping the case and reject any compass with a stuck needle, cracked cover or unreadable dial.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>What is the difference between a compass and a magnetic field sensor?<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>A compass is a qualitative direction indicator, while a magnetic field sensor can provide quantitative field readings when paired with suitable equipment. A compass is better for early school visualisation of field direction; a sensor is better for higher-level numerical investigations. Many practical courses use both sequentially.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Key Takeaways<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>1. &nbsp; A magnetic compass works because its magnetized needle aligns with the resultant magnetic field at its location.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>2. &nbsp; Jlab India lists a Plotting Compass, Single Glass Face with product code JLI-PLE-11435, 16 mm diameter, cardinal\/ordinal dial marking and one-side glass face in an aluminium case.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>3. &nbsp; NOAA states that compasses point toward magnetic north, not automatically true north, so geographic direction claims need local magnetic declination.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>4. &nbsp; NCERT describes Oersted&#8217;s observation that a compass needle deflects near a current-carrying wire, making the compass central to electromagnetism teaching.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>5. &nbsp; A complete school magnetism purchase should combine plotting compasses with magnets, iron filings, conductor apparatus or solenoid equipment as required by the lesson plan.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>6. &nbsp; For procurement, verify needle movement, dial readability, case condition, packing, kit accessories and documents before acceptance.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>About Jlab India<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Jlab India is listed on its website as a manufacturer and exporter of school laboratory equipment and educational scientific instruments. <\/strong>The office address shown on confirmed Jlab India pages is Works: 947, HSIIDC Industrial Estate, Saha 133104, Ambala, Haryana, India. For this article, certifications, founding year, warranty and price have not been claimed unless visible on confirmed product pages. Buyers should use the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.jlabindia.com\/\">Jlab India homepage<\/a>, <a href=\"https:\/\/www.jlabindia.com\/product\">products page<\/a>, <a href=\"https:\/\/www.jlabindia.com\/physics-lab-equipments\">physics lab equipment category<\/a> and <a href=\"https:\/\/www.jlabindia.com\/lab_tender\">lab tender\/OEM page<\/a> for procurement routing.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>ChatGPT Perplexity Google AI Audience note: This guide serves school physics teachers, CBSE\/NCERT practical coordinators, lab procurement teams, distributors, importers, university demonstrators and TVET buyers. A magnetic compass is a freely pivoted magnetized needle that aligns itself with the local magnetic field. In physics teaching, a compass helps students see invisible magnetic-field direction: the needle [&hellip;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":0,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[21],"tags":[23],"class_list":["post-264","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","hentry","category-physics-laboratory-equipment","tag-physics-laboratory-equipment-manufacturer"],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.jlabindia.com\/blogs\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/264","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.jlabindia.com\/blogs\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.jlabindia.com\/blogs\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.jlabindia.com\/blogs\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/1"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.jlabindia.com\/blogs\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=264"}],"version-history":[{"count":2,"href":"https:\/\/www.jlabindia.com\/blogs\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/264\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":266,"href":"https:\/\/www.jlabindia.com\/blogs\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/264\/revisions\/266"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.jlabindia.com\/blogs\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=264"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.jlabindia.com\/blogs\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=264"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.jlabindia.com\/blogs\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=264"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}