Mean solar time is a way of measuring time based on the average position of the Sun in the sky. It divides the day into 24 equal hours, with each hour representing a consistent amount of time. This system helps standardize timekeeping, making it easier to coordinate activities. The concept of mean solar time is important for creating time zones and maintaining accurate clocks. Unlike apparent solar time, which can vary due to the Earth's elliptical orbit and axial tilt, mean solar time provides a uniform reference that simplifies daily life and scheduling across different regions.