What is the width of each zone in the Universal Transverse Mercator system?

In the Universal Transverse Mercator (UTM) system, the width of each zone is consistently 6 degrees of longitude. The UTM system divides the world into a series of zones, each designed to minimize distortion and provide accurate spatial representation within that specific area. Each zone extends from the equator to the poles, and there are a total of 60 zones that cover the globe, progressing from 180 degrees west longitude to 180 degrees east longitude.

Choosing 6 degrees as the width helps to maintain scale accuracy within each zone, allowing for precise mapping and distance calculations. This design is essential for activities such as surveying, navigation, and GIS applications. By keeping the width standardized at 6 degrees, users can effectively convert between geographic coordinates and UTM coordinates, ensuring a reliable framework for spatial analysis.