7th grade world history
Magnetic Compass The magnetic compass appears as a spoon on a metal slab. It was invented during the Qin Dynasty by the Chinese fortune tellers. The compass ?needle? was rubbed against a lodestone which always pointed north and south. The slab contained all cardinal points and some constellations. This invention affects us today by allowing us to navigate safely through various terrains. It guides many lost people to safety and helps guide captains to their destination. This is how many voyages became successful and are one of the reasons why we live here today. Positive features of compass: Led to European Age of Exploration Showed evidence of Earth?s magnetic force A great navigation system for many ships Helped people learn about magnetite