The imaginary line that divides the Earth into Northern and Southern Hemispheres is called the Equator. This line is equidistant from the North and South Poles, making it the central latitude at 0 degrees. The Equator plays a crucial role in climate and weather patterns; regions near the Equator typically experience consistent temperatures year-round and have tropical climates. It serves as a cultural and geographical reference point on the world map, helping to categorize countries and continents. The concept of the Equator is essential for understanding Earth's rotational dynamics, climate zones, and the distribution of biodiversity.