The precise location of Earth’s magnetic north pole was first determined in 1831. Since then, it has gradually drifted north-northwest by more than 600 miles (1,100 kilometers) and its forward speed has increased from about 10 miles (16 kilometers) per year to approximately 34 miles (55 kilometers) per year.
In the last 100 years, the north pole has moved a significant distance. According to the latest survey in 2007, the pole was located at 83°57′00″N 120°43′12″W. Throughout the 20th century, it moved 1,100 km (680 mi), and since 1970, its rate of motion has accelerated from 9 to 52 km (5.6 to 32.3 mi) per year (2001–2007 average; see also polar drift).
The rapid movement of the north pole can be attributed to shifts in the core’s rate of spin and the currents within the molten material. These factors likely influence the planet’s magnetic field and the position of the poles. In essence, the poles are in constant motion due to changes in convection within the core, which may also lead to polarity reversals.
