The distance of a place north or south of the Equator is called ?

The Earth’s surface is mapped using an imaginary grid system of latitude and longitude, which allows precise location of any place. The distance of a place north or south of the Equator is known as latitude. Latitude is measured in degrees (°), ranging from 0° at the Equator to 90° at the poles. Lines of latitude, also called parallels, run horizontally around the Earth and remain parallel to the Equator.

Latitude is different from longitude, which measures the distance east or west of the Prime Meridian. Each degree of latitude is approximately 111 kilometers apart, providing a consistent way to measure distances north or south. Latitude plays an important role in determining climate, temperature, day length, and seasons of different regions. For instance, areas near the Equator experience consistently warm climates, while regions near the poles have extreme cold and seasonal variations in daylight.

Latitude is widely used in geography, navigation, map reading, and Earth sciences. Sailors, pilots, and explorers rely on latitude for accurate positioning and navigation. It is also important for understanding climate zones, ecosystems, and weather patterns, as the distance from the Equator directly affects environmental conditions.

Learning about latitude helps students understand the Earth’s geometric structure, spatial orientation, and natural phenomena. It is a fundamental concept in Everyday Science, as it explains the relationship between location, climate, and the Earth’s rotation. By studying latitude, one can connect theoretical knowledge with practical observations of the world.