latitudide

Latitude is a geographic coordinate that specifies the north-south position of a point on the Earth's surface. It is an angle, measured in degrees, north or south of the Earth's Equator. The Equator itself is defined as 0 degrees latitude. Locations north of the Equator have positive latitudes, ranging from 0 degrees to 90 degrees North (the North Pole). Locations south of the Equator have negative latitudes, ranging from 0 degrees to -90 degrees South (the South Pole). Latitude is often depicted as horizontal lines on maps and globes, known as parallels. These parallels are circles parallel to the Equator, and their size decreases as they move towards the poles.

The measurement of latitude relies on astronomical observations. Historically, navigators used the altitude of celestial bodies, such as the Sun or Polaris (the North Star), above the horizon to determine their latitude. For example, the altitude of Polaris above the horizon is approximately equal to the observer's latitude in the Northern Hemisphere. With modern technology, latitude is precisely determined using Global Positioning System (GPS) receivers and other satellite navigation systems. Latitude plays a crucial role in defining climate zones, as areas closer to the Equator generally receive more direct sunlight and are warmer than areas closer to the poles. It is one of the two key components, along with longitude, used to define a precise location on Earth.