Angola, a vibrant country located in southern Africa, is known for its rich culture, diverse landscapes, and stunning coastline along the Atlantic Ocean. To better understand the country’s position on the globe, it’s important to know its absolute location. In this blog post, we’ll explore the geographic coordinates of Angola, and how these coordinates help define the country’s precise location on Earth.
What Is Absolute Location?
The term absolute location refers to the exact position of a place on Earth using a coordinate system of latitude and longitude. Unlike relative location, which describes a place in relation to other locations (e.g., “next to the ocean” or “north of a neighboring country”), absolute location provides a specific and precise reference point that can be pinpointed anywhere on the planet.
- Latitude refers to the distance north or south of the Equator (0° latitude).
- Longitude refers to the distance east or west of the Prime Meridian (0° longitude).
The combination of latitude and longitude coordinates gives a unique absolute location for any place.
Absolute Location of Angola
Angola is located on the west coast of southern Africa. Its absolute geographic coordinates are approximately:
- Latitude: 11.2020° S (south of the Equator)
- Longitude: 17.8739° E (east of the Prime Meridian)
This means Angola is positioned just south of the Equator and slightly to the east of the Prime Meridian. It shares borders with several countries: Namibia to the south, Zambia to the east, and the Democratic Republic of the Congo to the north. To the west, Angola has a long coastline along the Atlantic Ocean.
Why Is Knowing Absolute Location Important?
- Navigational Purposes: The absolute location of Angola is crucial for navigation, especially for travelers, airlines, and ships. Knowing the exact coordinates ensures that people can accurately reach Angola from any part of the world.
- Geographical Studies: The absolute location helps geographers and scientists study Angola’s environment, climate, and ecosystems. Its position near the Equator means it has a tropical climate, which influences the country’s flora, fauna, and agriculture.
- Political and Economic Significance: Angola’s location along the Atlantic Ocean has economic importance, particularly for trade and shipping routes. It allows for easy access to international markets, which is beneficial for the country’s oil exports and other industries.
- Cultural and Historical Context: Understanding Angola’s position relative to neighboring countries and its coast gives insight into the country’s historical connections with exploration, colonization, and trade. The region has long been a crossroads for different cultures and peoples.
Geography of Angola
Angola’s diverse geography includes:
- Coastal regions: Stretching over 1,600 kilometers along the Atlantic, Angola boasts beautiful beaches and vital ports.
- Mountain ranges: The Central Highlands and Bie Plateau are located in the center of the country.
- Rainforests: The northern part of Angola, near the Congo River, is home to lush rainforests with unique biodiversity.
- Deserts: The Namib Desert extends into the southern regions of Angola, characterized by dry landscapes and sparse vegetation.
This diverse landscape contributes to Angola’s rich ecosystems, including wildlife such as elephants, lions, and gorillas, as well as diverse plant species.
The absolute location of Angola, with coordinates of 11.2020° S latitude and 17.8739° E longitude, places the country on the western edge of southern Africa, near the Equator. Its strategic position allows it to enjoy a mix of tropical and subtropical climates and provides access to vital trade routes along the Atlantic Ocean. Understanding Angola’s absolute location not only helps in navigating the region but also gives insight into the country’s culture, economy, and geography, highlighting its significance in the African continent.