magnetic equator

noun

magnetic equator

an imaginary line on the earth's surface, near the equator, at all points on which there is no magnetic dip Also calledaclinic line

magnetic equator

A line connecting all points on the earth's surface at which the magnetic field is parallel to the Earth's surface. A balanced magnetic needle on the magnetic equator stabilizes in a perfectly horizontal position.

First recorded in 1825–35

The value of the horizontal component is zero at the north magnetic pole, and increases toward the magnetic equator.

A freely suspended magnetic needle will not maintain a horizontal position except at the magnetic equator.

These lines are made by currents arising from one side of the magnetic equator, and passing over to the other.

The magnetic equator, as sought by the dipping needle, is not coincident with the geographical one.

But suppose that the earth is to the North of the magnetic equator of the field, what happens then?

April 18, 2024petrichor

[pet-ri-kawr]

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