Why are time zones significant in geography?

Time zones are significant in geography primarily because they help standardize time across different regions. This standardization is essential for coordinating activities, both domestically and internationally, such as business operations, transportation schedules, and communication. Without established time zones, there would be confusion with varying local times, making it difficult to synchronize events or understand time differences between regions.

While time zones do intersect with various geographic and social factors, such as local climates or urban planning, their primary role is to create a consistent framework that allows societies to function cohesively across different areas of the globe. This coordination is crucial for global interactions, such as trade and travel, ensuring that everyone can operate on a common temporal reference.