The imaginary line that divides the Earth into the Northern and Southern Hemispheres is the Equator. Located at 0 degrees latitude, the Equator is an important reference point for geography and navigation. It circles the Earth, lying equidistant from the North and South Poles. The Equator plays a crucial role in climate, as regions near it receive more direct sunlight throughout the year, resulting in warmer temperatures and consistent weather patterns. This line also helps in understanding time zones and the distribution of ecosystems. Many countries, including Ecuador, Brazil, and Indonesia, have portions of their land along the Equator.