Question
Consider the following lines of Longitude and Latitude: 1. Prime Meridian 2. Tropic of Cancer 3. Equator Which of the above lines is/are a Great Circle?
NDA
General Ability
General Studies
2025
NDA 2025 (Phase 1)
NDA General Ability Question (2025) — Solution
Options
- A. 1, 2 and 3
- B. 1 and 2 only
- C. 1 and 3 only
- D. 3 only
Answer
C. 1 and 3 only
Step-by-step solution
A great circle is a circle on the surface of a sphere which lies in a plane passing through the sphere's center. It divides the Earth into two equal hemispheres. The Equator is the only line of latitude that is a great circle, as its plane passes through the center of the Earth. All lines of longitude (meridians), including the Prime Meridian, form great circles when paired with their opposite meridians. In geographical terms, they are classified as great circles. The Tropic of Cancer is a small circle because its plane does not pass through the center of the Earth. Therefore, the Prime Meridian and the Equator are great circles. Answer: 1 and 3 only
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