Magnetic deviation

Magnetic deviation is like when you are playing hide-and-seek and someone gives you a clue that takes you in the wrong direction. In the same way, magnetic deviation happens when a magnetic compass (the kind that tells you which way is north) gets confused and gives you the wrong direction. This confusion happens because of the presence of other magnets around the compass that interfere with its readings.

Imagine you have a very sensitive nose and you are trying to find candy. But, your mom sprays a little perfume around the house, and suddenly, you get confused and start going the wrong way because you were confused by the smell. Similarly, when a compass is close to different magnets, it gets confused and gives you the wrong direction to go to. This could be problematic if you're navigating through unfamiliar waters or trying to land an airplane, which is why pilots and sailors need to be aware of magnetic deviation and know how to account for it.

To fix this problem, people have to make sure that the instruments they are using are accurate and adjusted for magnetic deviation. This is done by taking measurements and then adding or subtracting a correction factor to the compass readings. This correction factor will ensure that the compass is pointing to the correct direction, even with the presence of other magnets around it. So, the next time you use a compass and it doesn't seem to be working right, remember that there may be other magnets nearby that are causing the confusion!