If a ship is proceeding towards the magnetic equator, the uncorrected deviation due to permanent magnetism __________.

Correct Answer: Option B — decreases

Deviation is caused by the ship's permanent and induced magnetism. As a vessel moves toward the magnetic equator, the vertical component of the Earth's magnetic field decreases, reducing the induced magnetism in the ship's structure. Consequently, the uncorrected deviation caused by this magnetism decreases as the vessel approaches the equator.