What kind of approach is needed when steering by magnetic compass compared to gyrocompass?

When steering by a magnetic compass, a wider approach is necessary due to certain inherent limitations and characteristics of the magnetic compass itself.

The magnetic compass is affected by magnetic variations and influences from local magnetic fields, which can cause the compass to give slightly inaccurate readings, especially in complex navigation environments. Additionally, factors such as the magnetic dip and the compass's inherent lag or delay in response to changes in heading further necessitate a wider approach to ensure accuracy in navigation. This wider approach allows for corrections to be made in response to the compass reading without necessarily veering off course.

In contrast, a gyrocompass, being more stable and less influenced by magnetic fields, provides a more reliable and consistent reading. Therefore, it allows for tighter steering approaches since it maintains its heading more accurately relative to true north.

This difference in the behavior and response between the two types of compasses underscores the need for a wider approach when using a magnetic compass to enhance navigational safety and precision.