Latitude and Longitude
Latitude and longitude are imaginary lines on the Earth used to locate any place precisely using coordinates.
Core concept
Latitude lines run horizontally (east-west) around the Earth, measuring distance north or south of the Equator (0 degrees latitude), up to 90 degrees at the poles.
How it works
Longitude lines run vertically (north-south) from pole to pole, measuring distance east or west of the Prime Meridian (0 degrees longitude), which passes through Greenwich, England.
Why it matters
Together, latitude and longitude form a grid system, allowing us to pinpoint any location on Earth using a pair of coordinates, like 28°N, 77°E for Delhi.
Key detail
This coordinate system is essential for navigation, mapmaking, and understanding the exact position of countries, cities, and geographic features around the world.
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Quick notes
• Latitude lines run east-west, measuring distance from the Equator.
• The Equator is 0 degrees latitude.
• Longitude lines run north-south, measuring distance from the Prime Meridian.
• The Prime Meridian is 0 degrees longitude, through Greenwich.
• Latitude and longitude together form a grid system.
• Coordinates like 28°N, 77°E pinpoint exact locations.
• This system is essential for navigation and mapmaking.
• Every place on Earth has unique coordinates.