What is the difference between longitude and latitude?
Latitude and longitude coordinates are two of the most important geographical tools used to pinpoint locations on the Earth's surface. This article will define the differences between latitude and longitude and how they relate to each other.
Latitude, also known as parallels, run east-west and measure the distances north-south of the equator. They are imaginary lines that are drawn from pole to pole. The equator is defined as 0° and the poles are 90° north and south. Distances in degrees of latitude increase as one travels north or south, up to a maximum of 180°.
Longitude, or meridians, run north-south and measure the distances east-west of the prime meridian. These are arbitrary lines that are drawn from the North Pole to the South Pole. The prime meridian is defined as 0° and the other meridians – 180° east and west – complete the full circle of 360°.
When combined, these coordinates form a unique location that can be precisely identified on the Earth’s surface. Together, they give the exact spot that one is referring to.
In summary, the difference between latitude and longitude is that latitude measures distances north-south of the equator and longitude measures distances east-west of the prime meridian.
Together, these geographic coordinates help pinpoint locations anywhere on the planet.