What is defined as the main imaginary line running east and west for land description purposes?

The term describing the main imaginary line that runs east and west for land description purposes is known as a baseline. In the context of land surveying and the government survey system, a baseline is a reference line from which all measurements of land are made in a specific area. Baselines are used in conjunction with principal meridians, which run north and south, to create a grid system for accurately describing and mapping land parcels.

Understanding this concept is crucial for those studying real estate and land surveying, as it lays the foundation for how properties are delineated and identified. When surveying land, the baseline serves as a crucial reference point for establishing land boundaries, making it essential for effective land management and property rights.