Time zones

Definition

Time zones are regions of the Earth that have the same standard time. They are used to coordinate activities across different areas.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. There are 24 primary time zones, each generally covering 15 degrees of longitude.
2. Time zones were established to standardize time for travel and communication.
3. The prime meridian (0 degrees longitude) in Greenwich, England is the starting point for Coordinated Universal Time (UTC).
4. Some countries and regions use Daylight Saving Time to make better use of daylight during certain periods of the year.
5. The International Date Line roughly follows the 180-degree meridian but deviates to avoid splitting countries into different days.

Review Questions

Related terms

Longitude:

The geographic coordinate that specifies the east-west position on Earth.

Coordinated Universal Time (UTC): The primary time standard by which the world regulates clocks and time.

Daylight Saving Time:

The practice of setting clocks forward by one hour during warmer months to extend evening daylight.