Soar to New Heights with the 2025 Commercial Pilot License (CPL) Practice Exam – Ready for Takeoff!

Magnetic dip refers to the angle that a magnetic compass needle makes with the horizontal plane as it aligns with the Earth's magnetic field. When we talk about the downward tilt of the compass towards magnetic north, we are acknowledging the effect of the Earth's magnetic field on the compass itself. This downward angle means that the compass needle will not only point horizontally to magnetic north but will also tilt downward as it aligns with the magnetic lines of force.

Understanding magnetic dip is essential for pilots, as it can cause compass errors, particularly in high-latitude areas where the dip is more pronounced. This is important during flight operations, especially when relying on the compass for navigation. The other options do not correctly define magnetic dip; they address different aspects of compass behavior or navigation, but do not capture the specific nature of how the compass interacts with the Earth's magnetic field.