Equator

The equator is an imaginary line that runs around the Earth's middle at 0 degrees latitude. It divides the Earth into the Northern Hemisphere and the Southern Hemisphere. The equator is approximately 24,901 miles (40,075 kilometers) long and is the longest line of latitude on the Earth.

Location

The equator runs through 13 countries: Ecuador, Colombia, Brazil, Sao Tome and Principe, Gabon, Republic of the Congo, Democratic Republic of the Congo, Uganda, Kenya, Somalia, Indonesia, Kiribati, and the Maldives. The equator passes through these countries, allowing them to experience a tropical climate.

Climate

Areas near the equator experience a tropical climate characterized by warm temperatures, high humidity, and heavy rainfall. Due to the Earth's tilt, the equatorial region experiences consistent day length throughout the year, resulting in relatively stable temperatures and weather patterns.

Effect on Day and Night

At the equator, the length of day and night is almost equal throughout the year. This is in contrast to regions closer to the poles, where the length of day and night varies significantly with the seasons.

Study Guide

1. What is the equator?
2. What is the length of the equator?
3. Which countries does the equator pass through?
4. Describe the climate near the equator.
5. How does the equator affect the length of day and night?