Lines of latitude, also known as parallels, measure the distance north or south of the Equator. This distance is expressed in degrees, ranging from 0° at the Equator to 90° at the poles.
Key facts about lines of latitude:
- Direction: They run horizontally around the globe, parallel to the Equator.
- Reference Points: Major lines include the Tropics of Cancer and Capricorn (23.5° N and S) and the Arctic and Antarctic Circles (66.5° N and S).
- Purpose: Latitude helps determine a location’s climate and weather patterns by indicating how far it is from the sun’s direct rays.
Latitude is essential for navigation, geography, and understanding Earth’s diverse climates
