What is the characteristic of the Prime Meridian's location?

What is the characteristic of the Prime Meridian's location?

• A. It passes through the North Pole
• B. It marks the southernmost point of the Earth
• C. It is defined as 0° longitude
• D. It is the longest line of latitude

Answer: (C)

The Prime Meridian is defined as 0° longitude, which is its most distinguishing characteristic. This reference line serves as the starting point for measuring longitude, with degrees measured east and west from this line. Its establishment in Greenwich, England, allows for standardized time zones and navigation systems globally. The significance of the Prime Meridian lies in its role in the geographic coordinate system, where it helps to divide the Earth into the Eastern and Western Hemispheres. By identifying this reference point, it becomes possible to pinpoint locations around the globe accurately, which is crucial for navigation, mapping, and timekeeping. The other characteristics presented do not apply to the Prime Meridian. It does not run through the North Pole, which is a separate geographic point. It also does not mark the southernmost point of the Earth, as that is represented by the South Pole. Lastly, the Prime Meridian is not a line of latitude but rather a line of longitude, distinguishing it from the equator, which is the longest line of latitude at 0° latitude.

The Prime Meridian is defined as 0° longitude, which is its most distinguishing characteristic. This reference line serves as the starting point for measuring longitude, with degrees measured east and west from this line. Its establishment in Greenwich, England, allows for standardized time zones and navigation systems globally.

The significance of the Prime Meridian lies in its role in the geographic coordinate system, where it helps to divide the Earth into the Eastern and Western Hemispheres. By identifying this reference point, it becomes possible to pinpoint locations around the globe accurately, which is crucial for navigation, mapping, and timekeeping.

The other characteristics presented do not apply to the Prime Meridian. It does not run through the North Pole, which is a separate geographic point. It also does not mark the southernmost point of the Earth, as that is represented by the South Pole. Lastly, the Prime Meridian is not a line of latitude but rather a line of longitude, distinguishing it from the equator, which is the longest line of latitude at 0° latitude.