WGS

WGS is an acronym that can refer to more than one concept in science and technology. The two most common meanings are World Geodetic System, a global reference framework for locating points on Earth, and Whole Genome Sequencing, a genomics method for determining the full DNA sequence of an organism. The context usually clarifies which meaning is intended.

World Geodetic System: The current standard, WGS 84, provides a geocentric coordinate system and a mathematical model of the Earth's shape (the reference ellipsoid). It is used by the Global Positioning System and most modern mapping and navigation, providing latitude, longitude, and height coordinates. WGS 84 is an evolving realization. It is maintained by the U.S. Department of Defense and periodically updated to remain consistent with the International Terrestrial Reference Frame (ITRF). The system uses a specific epoch and velocity model to account for tectonic plate motion and other geophysical changes. The ellipsoid approximately has a semi-major axis of 6,378.137 km and a flattening of 1/298.257223563, with time-dependent coordinates.

Whole Genome Sequencing: WGS determines the complete DNA sequence of an organism’s genome. It commonly uses high-throughput sequencing platforms, including short-read and long-read technologies, followed by assembly and annotation. Results are stored in standard formats such as FASTQ, BAM/VCF, and reference databases. Applications include human medical genetics and diagnostics, cancer genomics, infectious disease surveillance, agriculture, and evolutionary biology. Challenges include data volume, analysis complexity, interpretation, cost, and privacy considerations.