What do magnets produce that can adversely affect aircraft instrument systems such as the magnetic compass?

Magnets produce magnetic field emissions, which can significantly affect aircraft instrument systems like the magnetic compass. The magnetic compass is designed to align itself with the Earth's magnetic field to provide accurate directional information. However, external magnetic fields from nearby magnets can distort this alignment, leading to erroneous readings. This interference can result in navigational errors, which are critical in aviation where precise direction-finding is essential for safe flight operations. Understanding how magnetic fields interact with the instruments allows pilots and technicians to mitigate these effects, ensuring the reliability of navigational systems.