The arc of meridian is a term that is commonly used in geography and cartography. It refers to the section of a meridian that lies between two points of equal latitude. This article will explore the definition, origin, and meaning of the arc of meridian, as well as its associations, synonyms, and antonyms.
Definitions
The arc of meridian is defined as the portion of a meridian that is measured between two points of equal latitude. A meridian is a line of longitude that runs from the North Pole to the South Pole and passes through every point on the Earth’s surface. The arc of meridian is an important concept in geodesy, which is the science of measuring the Earth’s shape and size.
Origin
The concept of the arc of meridian dates back to the ancient Greeks, who were the first to realize that the Earth was a sphere. They also discovered that the Earth’s circumference could be measured by observing the angle of the sun’s rays at different points on the Earth’s surface. The arc of meridian was later refined by the French mathematician and astronomer, Jean Picard, in the 17th century.
Meaning in different dictionaries
The arc of meridian is defined in different dictionaries as the section of a meridian between two points of equal latitude. It is also described as a segment of a great circle that passes through the poles of the Earth and two specified points on the Earth’s surface.
Associations
The arc of meridian is associated with geodesy, cartography, and geography. It is used to measure the Earth’s shape and size, and to create accurate maps and charts of the Earth’s surface.
Synonyms
The synonyms of arc of meridian include meridian arc, arc of longitude, and segment of a great circle.
Antonyms
There are no direct antonyms of arc of meridian, but it can be contrasted with the arc of parallel, which is the portion of a parallel of latitude between two points of equal longitude.
The same root words
The root words of arc of meridian are “arc” and “meridian.” Arc refers to a curved line or segment of a circle, while meridian refers to a line of longitude that runs from the North Pole to the South Pole.
Example Sentences
- The arc of meridian between New York and London is approximately 3,500 miles.
- The geodesist used advanced equipment to measure the arc of meridian with great precision.
- The mapmaker used the arc of meridian to create an accurate map of the Earth’s surface.
- The arc of meridian is an important concept in cartography and geography.
- The French mathematician, Jean Picard, was the first to accurately measure the arc of meridian.