Declinometer

/ˌdɛklɪˈnɒmɪtər/ noun

Definition

An instrument used to measure declination, especially magnetic declination or the declination of celestial objects.

Etymology

From declination + -meter (Greek metron, 'measure'). This scientific instrument name follows the standard pattern for measurement devices.

Kelly Says

Modern GPS has made declinometers obsolete for navigation, but geologists still use them to measure magnetic declination locally because it reveals information about subsurface rock formations and mineral deposits.

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