Final answer:
A compass uses Earth's magnetic field to indicate direction, which helps create accurate angles and shapes. It works similarly to a bar magnet, with its needle aligning to Earth's north-south field. Moving a compass around a magnet also allows mapping of magnetic field lines.
Step-by-step explanation:
We use a compass to create different angles, angle relationships, and shapes due to its ability to reliably indicate directions based on Earth's magnetic field.
A compass functions because it contains a freely rotating magnetized needle that aligns with the magnetic field lines of the Earth.
When we know where north is, we can establish other directions and construct geometric figures with those references.
The Earth's magnetic field can be compared to a bar magnet with a north and south pole, albeit on a much larger scale.
Just like a compass needle aligns with a bar magnet's magnetic field, it aligns with the Earth's, which allows for navigation and orientation.
By moving a compass around a bar magnet, the needle orients itself along the magnet's field at that location, enabling us to map out magnetic field lines with precision.
This attribute also facilitates the creation of various geometric shapes consistent with the compass’s orientation to the magnetic field.