What is the significance of East and West in this measurement system?

In the context of angle measurement systems, East and West are significant because they correspond to specific angles on a standard polar coordinate system. In this system, East is typically defined as 0 degrees, while West is traditionally considered at 180 degrees. Thus, when referencing directions, the angles that East and West represent—90 degrees apart from each other—are integral to understanding directional measures in navigation, cartography, and geographic information systems.

This is crucial because these directional angles help establish bearings and identify positions on a map or within a geographic coordinate system. Knowing that East is represented as 0 degrees and West as 180 degrees provides a clear framework for understanding spatial orientation, making this foundational knowledge for anyone working in GIS or related fields.