Magnetic Declination
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Definition
Magnetic declination is the angle between true (geographic) north and magnetic north at a given location, expressed in degrees east or west.
Explanation
Earth's magnetic north pole does not coincide with its geographic north pole, causing compasses to deviate from true north by an amount that varies by location and changes over time. In 2024, magnetic declination in London is approximately 0°, while in Los Angeles it is about −11° (west). Hikers, pilots, and surveyors must apply this correction to convert compass readings into accurate true bearings.
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