What is the term for the difference between true north and magnetic north?

The term that refers to the difference between true north and magnetic north is magnetic declination. This is an essential concept in navigation and orienteering, as it helps in understanding how to properly align a magnetic compass with the true geographic coordinates.

True north refers to the direction along the earth's surface towards the North Pole, while magnetic north is the direction a magnetic compass points, which is influenced by the Earth's magnetic field. The angle between these two directions—true north and magnetic north—is what we call magnetic declination. This angle can vary depending on where you are located on the Earth's surface and changes over time as the magnetic field gradually shifts.

Understanding magnetic declination is critical for accurate navigation, especially in search and rescue operations where precise location finding is crucial. Adjusting for this difference ensures that routes plotted on maps align correctly with the compass readings in the field, thereby enhancing the effectiveness of navigational strategies.