the gre at circle   Concept The full circle that divides the earth into two equal parts is the great circle.  A circle is called a great circle only when it has the following three characteristics - that is - the largest circle in the sphere.  Larger circles cannot be drawn on the globe.  The earth is divided into two equal parts along the arc and the center of the 3 globes and the center of the earth will always be at one point.  So the radius of the great circle and the radius of the globe are always equal.  These three features are the only equator among the numerous axes and longitudes drawn on the globe.  So the equator is an example of a great circle.  As the equatorial circumference is the largest, it is the largest circle in the globe.  Other circles are small circles.  All perpendicular axes except the equator are tiny circles.  On the other hand, circles can be drawn on a geosphere extending through the north and south poles. Their centers are also located at the center of