The compass is used for navigation, location and direction. People use it to find their way, whether it is on a hiking trail or on a trip to a new location. It is an instrument composed of a suspended magnetic pointer that is attracted to the polarity of the North Pole.

How did explorers use a compass?

A compass is a navigational tool with a magnetic needle that points towards the magnetic north pole. People have used this device for hundreds of years. Explorers in the past were able to sail and navigate around the globe because of this small, but handy tool. … The compass rose would be placed inside of a box.

How did the compass help the world?

Compasses made it possible for explorers to sail far out into oceans and away from land—no matter what the weather was like. This led to more exploration, the discovery of new countries, and trade with other cultures.