GCSE Physics (CCEA)

Topic Summaries

Magnetic fields

Compasses

  • There is a permanent magnetic field around the Earth. Its poles align with the geographical North and South poles.
  • A compass contains a small permanent magnet that can freely rotate so that it aligns with the Earth’s magnetic field.
  • The North pole of the compass will point north due to an attractive force. This means the north pole of the Earth’s magnetic field is actually at the South Pole.

Unlock Compasses

Sign up to unlock the rest of this topic — plus every other topic, video, flashcard set and eBook guide in your SnapRevise+ subscription.

Cancel anytime — instant access the moment you sign up.