What is the difference between latitude and longitude?

Latitude and longitude are imaginary lines used to locate any place on Earth, but they differ in their direction, measurement, and purpose. Latitudes measure the distance north or south of the Equator, while longitudes measure the distance east or west of the Prime Meridian.

Latitudes are horizontal circles running parallel to the Equator and are measured from 0° to 90° North or South. The Equator (0° latitude) divides Earth into the Northern and Southern Hemispheres. Important latitudes include the Tropic of Cancer, Tropic of Capricorn, Arctic Circle, and Antarctic Circle.

Longitudes are vertical lines connecting the North Pole and South Pole and are measured from 0° to 180° East or West of the Prime Meridian. They help determine locations and calculate time zones across the world.

Together, latitude and longitude form a coordinate system that helps in maps, navigation, geography studies, and identifying exact positions on Earth.