Definition of prime meridian

The prime meridian is the line of longitude, specifically at 0 degrees longitude, which divides the Earth into the Eastern Hemisphere and the Western Hemisphere. It serves as a reference point from which other longitudes are measured. The prime meridian is also used as the basis for determining time zones around the world, with all time zones east of the line being ahead in time and those to the west being behind. The most commonly recognized prime meridian is the one that passes through the Royal Observatory in Greenwich, London, known as the Greenwich Meridian or the International Meridian.

The Prime Meridian is an imaginary line that divides the Earth into the Eastern Hemisphere and the Western Hemisphere. It represents 0 degrees of longitude and is used as a reference point for measuring longitude around the globe. The Prime Meridian passes through Greenwich, London, United Kingdom, and was established in 1884 at the International Meridian Conference as the standard for measuring time and coordinating global time zones. It serves as the starting point for determining time zones and is an essential reference for navigation and mapping.