What is a compass?

Compass is a traditional navigation tool in ancient China, which was used to determine the orientation and course of ships.

It is an important part of ancient navigation technology in China and is widely used in navigation, exploration and trade activities.

The compass is based on a magnetic needle pointing to the magnetic north pole of the earth. It consists of a disk and a magnetic needle that can rotate freely. The disc usually has a 360-degree scale to indicate the azimuth. The magnetic needle is made of magnetic material and hung in the center of the disc through thin lines or fulcrums. The magnetic needle will point to the geographical north pole under the action of the earth's magnetic field.

When using the compass to navigate, the crew needs to place the compass in a specific position on the ship to ensure that it is not interfered by other metal objects. Then, they observe the direction of the magnetic needle and determine the course of the ship according to the azimuth pointed by the magnetic needle. By constantly observing the magnetic needle and combining with other navigation tools, such as astronomical navigation and landmark observation, the crew can determine the accurate position and course of the ship and sail safely.

The invention and use of compass played an important role in the development of ancient navigation and trade in China. It enabled ancient ships in China to sail long distances at sea and explore new areas. This is of great significance to promoting trade, cultural exchanges and ocean exploration. The Compass Classic also spread to other countries, which had a far-reaching impact on the history of world navigation.

Although modern science and technology have replaced the position of compass in navigation, it still has important historical and cultural significance as the representative of ancient navigation technology in China.

The key period of ancient navigation technology and technology introduction;

1, Star Navigation: In ancient times, people determined the direction and position by observing the movement of celestial bodies. For example, the ancient Egyptians used constellations on both sides of the Nile to navigate, and also used the characteristics of monsoon winds and rivers.

2. Sailors' knowledge: In ancient Greece and Rome, sailors began to accumulate and inherit navigation experience and knowledge. This knowledge includes using sundials and astrolabes to measure time and orientation.

3. Compass classics: China invented the compass classics in ancient times, and its use began in the Southern Song Dynasty (1 1 century), which became an indispensable tool in navigation and trade. Based on the principle that the magnetic needle points to the magnetic north pole of the earth, the compass provides a reference for azimuth.

4. Astronomical navigation: In the era of great navigation in Europe, astronomical navigation became an important technology in navigation. Sailors calculate the latitude and longitude of ships by observing the positions and heights of the sun, stars and moon.

5. Improvement of navigation instruments:18th century, navigation instruments have been significantly improved. For example, john harrison invented an accurate ocean clock, which solved the problem of time difference in navigation. In addition, explorers such as Christopher Columbus and james cook also devoted themselves to improving tools such as nautical charts, compasses and telescopes.

6. Steam power and navigation equipment:/kloc-The appearance of steam power and navigation equipment in the 9th century has brought great changes to navigation. Steam boats have replaced traditional sailboats, providing faster speed and reliability. At the same time, more advanced navigation equipment such as compass, rangefinder and sonar have also been developed.