
Magnetic inclination
Magnetic inclination refers to the angle between Earth's magnetic field lines and the horizontal surface at a specific location. Imagine Earth's magnetic field as a giant bar magnet; the inclination indicates how much the magnetic field lines tilt downward or upward relative to the ground. At the magnetic equator, the lines are horizontal (0°), while near the poles, they plunge vertically (90°). This angle varies across different places on Earth and helps scientists understand Earth's magnetic structure, navigation, and how the magnetic field interacts with solar activity.