Why Study World Geography for Competitive Exams?
Questions on World Geography are commonly asked in different SSC, Railway & other government exams. It is one of the most important sections of Geography. Get complete study notes on world geography in this blog.
World Geography – The Universe Origin, Structure & Composition
The Universe comprises all existing matter and energy, including planets, stars, galaxies, intergalactic space, and even the smallest subatomic particles.
Key Facts About the Universe
The Universe is vast and fascinating, with countless mysteries waiting to be explored. Understanding some key facts about the Universe helps us grasp its scale, origin, and the scientific efforts to study it. Here are a few important points:
- Estimated age: 13.82 billion years
- Scientific study of the Universe: Cosmology
- Widely accepted origin theory: Big Bang Theory
What Is the Big Bang Theory?
The Big Bang Theory states that the Universe originated from a singular, extremely dense and hot point which expanded rapidly. This explosion marked the beginning of time and space, leading to the ongoing expansion of the Universe.
What Is Cosmology in World Geography?
Cosmology is the branch of science that studies the origin, evolution, structure, and eventual fate of the Universe. It involves the examination of celestial bodies and cosmic phenomena using physics, astronomy, and observational data.
Download Free World Geography PDF for Exams
Get a downloadable PDF version of these World Geography notes for revision and offline study. This includes:
- Universe facts
- Latitude and longitude charts
- Diagrams and definitions
- Previous year exam highlights
World Geography Basics
Refer to this quick table for fundamental world geography facts frequently asked in SSC, Railway, and government exams.
Topic | Key Point |
Age of Universe | 13.82 billion years |
Study of Universe | Cosmology |
Origin Theory | Big Bang Theory |
Equator | 0° Latitude, divides Earth into two hemispheres |
Prime Meridian | 0° Longitude, divides East and West Hemispheres |
Total Latitudes | 180 (90° N + 90° S) |
Total Longitudes | 360 (180° E + 180° W) |
World Geography – Latitudes and Longitudes
Latitudes and Longitudes are imaginary lines drawn on the Earth’s surface. They help in accurately locating places on the globe.
1. Equator
- The Equator is an imaginary line that divides the Earth into two equal halves: the Northern Hemisphere and the Southern Hemisphere.
- It is the reference line for latitude and is marked as 0° latitude.
2. Parallels of Latitude
- These are horizontal lines drawn parallel to the Equator.
- They are used to divide the Earth into different heat zones.
- Each zone experiences a different type of climate and vegetation depending on its distance from the Equator.
3. Meridians of Longitude
- These are vertical lines running from the North Pole to the South Pole.
- Unlike latitude, longitude has no natural reference point. Hence, the Prime Meridian (0° longitude) was chosen, which passes through the Royal Observatory in Greenwich, London.
- The Prime Meridian divides the Earth into the Eastern and Western Hemispheres.

Key Takeaways – World Geography Notes
Below are the key takeaways:
- The Universe originated approximately 13.82 billion years ago via the Big Bang.
- Cosmology is the scientific study of the Universe’s origin and structure.
- Latitudes and longitudes are essential tools for mapping the globe accurately.
- The Equator divides Earth into two hemispheres and is marked as 0° latitude.
- The Prime Meridian is the reference line for longitude, placed at 0°, running through Greenwich.
- Parallels of latitude help define climatic zones like tropical, temperate, and frigid.
- Meridians of longitude are used to calculate time zones and global positioning.
- World Geography is a frequently tested subject in SSC, Railway, and State PSC exams.
- Understanding key concepts and terminology helps improve accuracy in Static GK.
- Download the PDF for offline revision and practice with mock tests to reinforce learning.
World Geography – FAQs
Ans. It’s the most accepted theory explaining the origin of the universe, stating it began with a massive explosion around 13.82 billion years ago.
Ans. Cosmology is the scientific study of the origin, structure, and evolution of the universe.
Ans. These are imaginary horizontal lines parallel to the equator that help classify Earth’s heat zones like torrid, temperate, and frigid zones.
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