Which of the following is a recognized compass error?

Study with the Cessna 172 Systems Test. Prepare with flashcards and multiple choice questions, each with hints and explanations. Ace your exam!

Accelerate North, Decelerate South (ANDS) is recognized as a compass error related to the magnetic compass in an aircraft. This specific error occurs due to the physics of magnetic fields and the behavior of a compass in relation to the Earth's magnetic field.

When an aircraft accelerates, the magnetic compass tends to show a turn towards the north. Conversely, when the aircraft decelerates, the compass indicates a turn towards the south. This is caused by the pendulous nature of the compass needle, which is influenced by inertia during changes in speed. Pilots must understand this error because it can lead to significant navigation inaccuracies if not compensated for, especially during critical phases of flight such as maneuvers.

Other options describe various scenarios that do not correspond with established compass errors recognized in aviation. For example, Accelerate East, Decelerate West (AEWD) is another mnemonic related to compass errors but does not match the recognized error in this question. Similarly, the concept of undershooting or overshooting magnetic headings is not a standard compass error, nor is "Follow Magnetic Heading" a recognized error related to compass inaccuracies. Recognizing and understanding these compass errors is crucial for pilots to ensure safe navigation and improve their situational awareness.

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