How many degrees equals one time zone?

One time zone is defined as an area where the local time is uniform and generally aligns with a specific offset from Coordinated Universal Time (UTC). The earth is divided into 360 degrees of longitude, and since it rotates completely on its axis within 24 hours, it can be calculated that the earth rotates at a rate of 15 degrees per hour (360 degrees divided by 24 hours).

This means that each hour of time corresponds to 15 degrees of longitudinal distance. Since time zones are traditionally set to 1-hour increments, they correspond to 15 degrees of longitude. Hence, the correct number of degrees that equals one time zone is 15 degrees. This is a fundamental concept in understanding how time is calculated and standardized across different regions of the Earth.