Latitudes are imaginary circles on the Earth’s surface that are drawn parallel to the equator, which is the circle that lies equidistant from the North and South poles.
The properties of latitude are :
- Lines on Maps: Latitudes are represented by lines on maps that run from east to west. They are like horizontal lines across the globe.
- Measured in Degrees: Latitude is measured in degrees. The equator is at 0 degrees, and as you move north or south, the latitude increases. The maximum latitude is 90 degrees at the North Pole and -90 degrees at the South Pole.
- Effects on Climate: The latitude where a place is located affects its climate. Places near the equator are generally warmer, while those near the poles are colder.
- Equator is Special: The equator is the starting point for measuring latitude. It is an imaginary line equidistant from the North and South Poles.
- Parallel Circles: Latitudinal lines are like parallel circles around the Earth. They never meet or intersect.
