Which imaginary line divides the Earth into Eastern and Western Hemisp...
Prime Meridian
The imaginary line that divides the Earth into Eastern and Western Hemispheres is known as the Prime Meridian. This line runs from the North Pole to the South Pole and passes through Greenwich, England. It is designated as 0 degrees longitude, with locations to the east being in the Eastern Hemisphere and those to the west in the Western Hemisphere.
Significance of the Prime Meridian
- The Prime Meridian serves as the starting point for measuring longitude around the world.
- It helps in determining time zones and standard time across different regions.
- It plays a crucial role in navigation, cartography, and global positioning systems.
Relation to Greenwich Mean Time (GMT)
- The Prime Meridian is closely associated with Greenwich Mean Time (GMT), which is the standard time at the Royal Observatory in Greenwich.
- GMT is used as the reference time for other time zones around the world.
Historical Context
- The concept of the Prime Meridian was established at the International Meridian Conference in 1884, where Greenwich was chosen as the starting point for longitude.
- Prior to this, different countries used their own prime meridians, leading to inconsistencies in navigation and timekeeping.
Conclusion
The Prime Meridian is a fundamental reference point for determining location, time, and navigation on Earth. It serves as a key marker in dividing the world into Eastern and Western Hemispheres, influencing various aspects of global coordination and communication.
Which imaginary line divides the Earth into Eastern and Western Hemisp...
The Prime Meridian is the line of 0 degrees longitude and serves as the reference for measuring all other longitudes.