compass articles
Who is frequently credited with the earliest clear description of a magnetized needle used specifically for direction-finding?
In which seminal work did Shen Kuo compile his critical passages concerning magnetism around 1078 AD?
What was Shen Kuo's most significant scientific contribution regarding the compass device?
What specific direction did Shen Kuo state the magnetized needle pointed relative to true south?
What was the typical material and form of the ancient lodestone devices referred to as *sinan*?
What was the primary function of the traditional *sinan* devices prior to Shen Kuo's documented improvements?
What medium did Shen Kuo describe using to allow a thin, magnetized needle to swing freely and indicate direction?
If 'invention' means the first clear documentation of a magnetized *needle* apparatus used for direction-finding with scientific principles, who receives credit?
What notable phrase describes Shen Kuo's reputation stemming from his accomplishments spanning mathematics, astronomy, meteorology, and geology?
Besides magnetism, what major geological observation did Shen Kuo document regarding the Earth's structure?
What was the primary function of the earliest magnetic artifacts in Han Dynasty China?
What material was the earliest recognized form of the magnetic compass—the South Pointing Spoon—crafted from?
Which Song Dynasty polymath first recorded the observation of magnetic declination?
What text contains the first incontestable reference to the magnetic compass used specifically for seafaring navigation?
What major mechanical refinement, traditionally attributed to Flavio Gioja, modernized the compass by affixing the pointer to a rotating card?
What mounting system was introduced to keep the compass bowl level regardless of a ship's pitch and roll?
Which inventor patented a practical liquid mariner’s compass in 1813?
Which American physicist patented a greatly improved liquid marine compass in 1862?
In the Islamic world, the compass was notably adapted by al-Malik al-Ashraf for what religious observance?