How many degrees are in a full circle?

A full circle encompasses 360 degrees. This measurement is fundamental in geometry and is used as a standard reference for angles and rotations. The concept of 360 degrees in a circle has historical roots, possibly tracing back to ancient Babylonian mathematics, which used a base-60 number system.

Understanding this measurement is critical not only in geometry but also in various fields such as navigation, engineering, and more. The 360-degree system allows for a complete rotation and is divided into smaller units (like 90 degrees for a right angle), making it versatile for practical applications.

In contrast, the other potential answers represent different angles: 180 degrees corresponds to a straight line (half a circle), 540 degrees represents one and a half revolutions (an additional 180 degrees beyond a full circle), and 90 degrees defines a quarter of a full circle.