HISET Social Studies Practice

What is referred to as a hemisphere?

1. One-third of the Earth's surface

2. Half of the Earth

3. Any circular section of the Earth

4. The topmost layer of the Earth

The correct answer is: Half of the Earth

A hemisphere refers to half of the Earth, typically divided into the Northern and Southern Hemispheres or the Eastern and Western Hemispheres. This division is based on the equator and the prime meridian, which are significant geographical markers. By defining a hemisphere in this way, it becomes easier to understand various aspects of Earth, including climate, geography, and population distribution. The other choices highlight different concepts that do not accurately describe a hemisphere. One-third of the Earth's surface does not correspond to the term, as it indicates a specific fraction rather than a division into halves. A circular section could refer to any part of the Earth but lacks the precision of defining half. Lastly, the topmost layer of the Earth, which refers to the crust, is completely unrelated to the hemispherical concept, as it describes a specific geological layer rather than a complete division of the planet. Understanding these distinctions clarifies why "half of the Earth" is the correct and precise definition of a hemisphere.