In nature, there are many items that can act as a compass. Not only do these items help us find our way when we get lost, but they also guide us in a variety of environments. This article will take a look at several common natural compasses and how they point in the right direction.
1. The sun. The sun is a very practical natural compass. On Earth, the sun rises in the east and sets in the west every day. In the Northern Hemisphere, the Sun is usually located in the south at noon;In the Southern Hemisphere, the Sun is in the north at noon. Therefore, by looking at the position of the sun, we can roughly judge the north-south direction.
2. The Moon. The moon is also a good natural compass. In the Northern Hemisphere, the direction in which the moon rises in the east during the new moon is usually in the west, while the direction in which the moon sets during the full moon is in the west. In the Southern Hemisphere, the moon rises in the west during the new moon and sets in the east during the full moon. Therefore, by looking at the position of the moon, we can also roughly judge the north-south direction.
3. North Star.
The North Star is a bright star pointing north. In the Northern Hemisphere, Polaris is located near the Arctic Circle, almost perpendicular to the horizon. Therefore, as long as the North Star is found, the North can be determined. In the Southern Hemisphere, there is no South Pole star corresponding to Polaris, so other methods are needed to determine the direction.
Fourth, leaves. In some areas, the leaves can also be used as a compass. In the Northern Hemisphere, the leafy side usually faces south, while in the Southern Hemisphere it is the opposite. This is because the south has plenty of sunshine, which is conducive to the growth and reproduction of plants. Therefore, observing the orientation of the leaves can help us determine the north-south direction.
5. Ant Cave.
The ant hole is another natural sign that can indicate direction. Since ants usually choose sunny places to build their nests, the ant burrows usually point south. So, by observing the direction of the ant hole.