Longitude and Latitude
Latitude:
- Latitude is the angular distance north or south from the equator of a point on the Earth's surface.
- It is measured in degrees, with the equator being at 0 degrees and the poles at 90 degrees north and south.
- The lines of latitude run parallel to the equator and are used to locate positions on the Earth in a north-south direction.
Longitude:
- Longitude is the angular distance east or west from the prime meridian of a point on the Earth's surface.
- It is also measured in degrees, with the prime meridian at 0 degrees and the International Date Line at 180 degrees east or west.
- The lines of longitude converge at the poles and are used to locate positions on the Earth in an east-west direction.
Significance:
- Longitude and latitude together form a grid system that allows for precise location determination on the Earth's surface.
- They are essential for navigation, cartography, and GIS applications.
- By using coordinates of longitude and latitude, one can pinpoint any location on Earth with accuracy.
Conclusion:
Longitude and latitude are fundamental geographical coordinates that help in precisely locating any point on the Earth's surface. They form the basis for map-making, navigation, and various scientific studies related to Earth's geography and climate.