Glossary
Travel & Geography
Equator
Definition
An imaginary circle around the Earth at 0 degrees latitude, equidistant from the North and South Poles. Divides the Earth into Northern and Southern hemispheres.
Related Terms
Hemisphere
Half of the Earth divided by either the equator (Northern/Southern) or the Prime Meridian (Eastern/Western). Understanding hemispheres helps with seasonal differences and route planning.
Latitude
The angular distance of a point north or south of the equator, measured in degrees from 0 (equator) to 90 (poles). Combined with longitude, it specifies any location on Earth.
Great Circle
The shortest path between two points on the surface of a sphere, following the curve of the Earth. Aircraft follow great circle routes for fuel efficiency on long-haul flights.