The 180 degrees longitude is also known as the:a)Tropic of Cancerb)Tro...
The 180 degrees longitude is known as the International Date Line, where the date changes when crossed from west to east.
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The 180 degrees longitude is also known as the:a)Tropic of Cancerb)Tro...
Understanding the 180 Degrees Longitude
The 180 degrees longitude is a significant geographical reference point, primarily known as the International Date Line.
What is the International Date Line?
- The International Date Line (IDL) is an imaginary line that runs from the North Pole to the South Pole.
- It is located approximately along the 180 degrees longitude line, although it zigzags to avoid splitting countries and territories.
Function of the International Date Line
- The IDL serves as a boundary for calendar days. When you cross the line from west to east, you subtract a day; when you cross from east to west, you add a day.
- This mechanism helps in maintaining a consistent and standardized timekeeping system across the globe.
Distinction from Other Lines
- Unlike the Prime Meridian (0 degrees longitude), which serves as the starting point for measuring longitude, the IDL is primarily concerned with time zones.
- The Tropic of Cancer and Tropic of Capricorn are latitudinal lines, marking the northernmost and southernmost points where the sun can be directly overhead, respectively.
Conclusion
In summary, the correct identification of 180 degrees longitude as the International Date Line is crucial for understanding global time zones and how we manage the measurement of time across different regions of the world.