Understanding Compass Declination

What is magnetic declination?

• The angle difference between true north and magnetic north

• The angle difference between east and west

• The fluctuation of Earth's magnetic fields

• The distance between the equator and the poles

Where is magnetic north currently located?

• At the North Pole

• On the equator

• In the middle of the Atlantic Ocean

• North of Hudson Bay in Canada

How does declination vary across the continental U.S.?

• It remains constant at 15 degrees

• From 0 degrees to 90 degrees

• It varies randomly without any pattern

• From nearly 20 degrees east on the West Coast to nearly 20 degrees west on the East Coast

What should you do if your compass doesn't have adjustable declination?

• Use a GPS instead

• Buy a new compass immediately

• Add or subtract the declination each time you work with a bearing

• Ignore the declination and use the compass as is

How can you find the declination value for your trip area?

• Use a smartphone app

• Estimate it based on the weather

• Ask a local guide

• Check the topographic map's legend or the NOAA website

What is the first step in adjusting declination on a Brunton compass?

• Check the declination scale

• Place your thumb on the center hub of the compass

• Insert the adjustment key into the screw

• Turn the compass over

What tool is needed to adjust declination on a Suunto compass?

• A screwdriver

• A magnet

• A metal key provided with the compass

• A compass adjustment app

What happens when you transfer a magnetic bearing taken in the field to your map?

• You multiply the magnetic declination by the bearing

• You add the magnetic declination to get the true bearing

• You divide the magnetic declination by the bearing

• You subtract the magnetic declination to get the true bearing