What is the difference between latitude and longitude?

The distinction between latitude and longitude is fundamental for geographic positioning. Latitude is defined as the measurement of distance north or south of the Equator, which is the 0 degrees line of latitude. Lines of latitude are parallel to the Equator and are often referred to as parallels. In contrast, longitude measures distance east or west of the Prime Meridian, which is established at 0 degrees longitude and runs from the North Pole to the South Pole. The lines of longitude, also known as meridians, converge at the poles.

Understanding this distinction is essential for interpreting maps and using global navigation systems, as latitude provides information about how far north or south a location is from the Equator, while longitude indicates how far east or west that location is from the Prime Meridian. This knowledge is crucial for accurately locating places on Earth.