A device used to determine the direction of magnetic north is called a compass. Typically consisting of a magnetized needle balanced on a pivot point, a compass aligns itself with the Earth's magnetic field, allowing users to identify cardinal directions. When at rest, the needle points towards magnetic north, which is close to, but not exactly at, the North Pole. Compasses have been used for centuries in navigation, enabling explorers and travelers to find their way across land and sea. Today, compasses are used in various fields, including outdoor activities, aviation, and maritime navigation, along with advanced GPS technology.