What does the Prime Meridian signify?

What does the Prime Meridian signify?

• A. A line of latitude marking the Equator
• B. A line of longitude defined as 0 degrees
• C. A geographical region of high elevations
• D. A political boundary in Europe

Answer: (B)

The Prime Meridian signifies a line of longitude that is defined as 0 degrees. This crucial reference point divides the Earth into the Eastern and Western Hemispheres. The significance of the Prime Meridian extends beyond mere geography; it serves as the foundation for the global time zone system, which relies on the division of the Earth into 24 time zones, each roughly corresponding to 15 degrees of longitude apart. Moreover, established at the Royal Observatory in Greenwich, England, the Prime Meridian has historical importance as it was selected during the International Meridian Conference in 1884, where it was chosen to promote a standard reference for navigation and timekeeping across maritime activities. In contrast, the Equator, which is associated with line A, marks 0 degrees latitude rather than longitude. Option C, referring to a geographical region of high elevations, does not pertain to the concept of longitude or latitude. Lastly, option D mentions a political boundary, which is unrelated to the Prime Meridian's function as a geographical reference line. Therefore, the designation of the Prime Meridian as the 0-degree line of longitude is foundational for understanding global geography.

The Prime Meridian signifies a line of longitude that is defined as 0 degrees. This crucial reference point divides the Earth into the Eastern and Western Hemispheres. The significance of the Prime Meridian extends beyond mere geography; it serves as the foundation for the global time zone system, which relies on the division of the Earth into 24 time zones, each roughly corresponding to 15 degrees of longitude apart. Moreover, established at the Royal Observatory in Greenwich, England, the Prime Meridian has historical importance as it was selected during the International Meridian Conference in 1884, where it was chosen to promote a standard reference for navigation and timekeeping across maritime activities.

In contrast, the Equator, which is associated with line A, marks 0 degrees latitude rather than longitude. Option C, referring to a geographical region of high elevations, does not pertain to the concept of longitude or latitude. Lastly, option D mentions a political boundary, which is unrelated to the Prime Meridian's function as a geographical reference line. Therefore, the designation of the Prime Meridian as the 0-degree line of longitude is foundational for understanding global geography.