what are some differences between the equator and the prime meridian?
HUH? They are perpendicular to each other. Meridians run north South and equator runs East west. There is only one equator, around the middle between north and south poles. There are lots of meridians stretching from north pole to south pole and just one is selected (through Greenwich, England) to be the "prime" one from which all others are measured (zero longitude) http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Prime_meridian_%28Greenwich%29
The Equator
is a line of latitude
divides the earth into southern and northern hemispheres
crosses all 360 lines of longitude
is closest to the sun year round
lies in the tropics
The Prime Meridian
is a line of longitude
is one of two lines dividing the earth into eastern and western hemispheres
crosses 180 lines of latitude
temperature varies between tropical and arctic
The Equator and the Prime Meridian are two important lines of reference used in geography and cartography. Here are some differences between the Equator and the Prime Meridian:
1. Definition: The Equator is an imaginary line that circles the Earth halfway between the North and South Poles, dividing the Earth into the Northern Hemisphere and the Southern Hemisphere. The Prime Meridian, on the other hand, is an imaginary line that runs from the North Pole to the South Pole, passing through Greenwich, London, and divides the Earth into the Eastern Hemisphere and the Western Hemisphere.
2. Orientation: The Equator is a horizontal line that runs east-west, while the Prime Meridian is a vertical line that runs north-south.
3. Geographical significance: The Equator is considered as the starting point to measure latitude, which is the distance north or south of the Equator. It helps in understanding climate zones, seasons, and the distribution of ecosystems. The Prime Meridian, on the other hand, is the starting point to measure longitude, which is the distance east or west of the Prime Meridian. It helps in determining time zones and navigation.
4. International Reference: The location of the Equator remains fixed, approximately 0 degrees latitude, while the Prime Meridian has been set at 0 degrees longitude. However, it is worth noting that the Prime Meridian has been subject to change in history, with different countries and cultures having their own prime meridian reference points.
To find the exact location of the Equator and the Prime Meridian, you can use various map tools or websites that provide latitude and longitude coordinates. Additionally, many physical maps and globes also indicate these lines prominently.