LATITUDES AND LONGITUDES
Latitude: Latitude refers to the imaginary horizontal lines, known as parallels, that run parallel to the equator, dividing the Earth into north and south. It measures the distance from the equator in degrees. The equator is defined as 0° latitude, while the North Pole and South Pole are located at 90° north and 90° south latitude, respectively. Each degree of latitude is equal to about 111 kilometres (69 miles). Latitude plays a significant role in determining climate zones, as regions near the equator are warmer due to more direct sunlight, while areas near the poles are colder.
Longitude: Longitude refers to the imaginary vertical lines, called meridians, that stretch from the North Pole to the South Pole. Longitude measures the distance east or west of the Prime Meridian, which is set at 0° longitude and passes through Greenwich, England. The Earth is divided into 180° east and 180° west, meeting at the International Date Line in the Pacific Ocean. Unlike latitude, the distance between degrees of longitude varies, being widest at the equator and converging at the poles.
Latitudes and longitudes form the backbone of the geodetic system, a coordinate grid used to accurately describe any location on Earth's surface. Each point on Earth can be pinpointed using a pair of coordinates: latitude and longitude. For instance, the Eiffel Tower in Paris is located at 48.8584° N, 2.2945° E, meaning it lies 48.8 degrees north of the equator and 2.29 degrees east of the Prime Meridian.
This system is essential not only for maps but also for a wide array of applications including satellite positioning, geopolitical boundary delineation, and environmental monitoring. Modern technology relies heavily on precise coordinates for mobile navigation systems, weather forecasting, and scientific exploration.