Zones are specific areas that are defined by certain characteristics or rules. For example, in urban planning, a residential zone is designated for homes, while a commercial zone is meant for businesses. These zones help organize land use and ensure that different activities do not interfere with one another. In environmental science, zones can refer to regions with similar climate or ecological conditions, such as climatic zones that categorize areas based on temperature and precipitation. Understanding these zones is crucial for managing resources and protecting ecosystems, as each zone supports different types of plants and animals.