What is the primary function of a magnetic compass?

The primary function of a magnetic compass is to serve as a simple directional tool that indicates the cardinal directions: north, south, east, and west. By utilizing the Earth's magnetic field, a compass allows users to orient themselves and navigate effectively in unfamiliar terrain. When you hold a compass level, the needle aligns itself with the magnetic north, providing a reliable point of reference for determining your direction of travel.

While a compass can be an essential part of navigation, it does not perform functions such as surveying, measuring distances, or calculating altitude. Each of these activities requires different tools and methods that are not within the capabilities of a basic magnetic compass. Thus, referring to it as a straightforward directional tool accurately captures its primary role in land navigation.