The angle of dip at the magnetic equator is

Options

A. zero
B. `90^(@)`
C. `45^(@)`
D. `180^(@)`

Answer

### Step-by-Step Solution:

1. **Understanding the Concept of Angle of Dip**:
The angle of dip, also known as the magnetic inclination, is the angle that the Earth's magnetic field makes with the horizontal plane. It varies depending on the geographical location.

2. **Magnetic Equator**:
The magnetic equator is an imaginary line around the Earth where the magnetic field is horizontal. At this location, the magnetic field lines are parallel to the Earth's surface.

3. **Behavior of Magnetic Field Lines**:
At the magnetic equator, the magnetic field lines originate from the magnetic north pole and terminate at the magnetic south pole. These lines are horizontal at the equator.

4. **Vertical Component of the Magnetic Field**:
The vertical component of the magnetic field is responsible for the angle of dip. At the magnetic equator, since the magnetic field lines are horizontal, the vertical component is zero.

5. **Conclusion about the Angle of Dip**:
Since the vertical component of the magnetic field is zero at the magnetic equator, the angle of dip is also zero. Therefore, if a magnet is freely suspended at the magnetic equator, it will align itself horizontally.

6. **Final Answer**:
The angle of dip at the magnetic equator is **0 degrees**.