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Latitude

Definition

Latitude refers to the angular distance north or south of the equator. It helps us determine a specific location on Earth's surface.

Analogy

Imagine latitude as horizontal lines drawn across a globe, similar to steps in stairs. Each line represents a different measurement of how far you are from the equator, just like each step represents a different height above or below sea level.

Related terms

Longitude: Longitude refers to the angular distance east or west of the prime meridian, which is an imaginary line running from pole to pole.

Equator: The equator is an imaginary circle around Earth's center that divides it into northern and southern hemispheres. It serves as a reference point for measuring latitude.

Coordinates: Coordinates are pairs of numbers (latitude and longitude) used to specify precise locations on Earth's surface.

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AP® and SAT® are trademarks registered by the College Board, which is not affiliated with, and does not endorse this website.