Latitude

Latitude is a geographic coordinate that specifies the north-south position of a point on the Earth's surface. It is measured in degrees from the equator, which is designated as 0 degrees latitude, to the poles, which are at 90 degrees north and south latitude.

Importance of Latitude

Latitude is important for understanding climate, navigation, and the distribution of species on Earth. It affects the amount of sunlight an area receives, which in turn influences temperature and weather patterns.

How Latitude is Measured

Latitude is measured using lines called parallels. The equator is the starting point, and as you move towards the poles, the latitude increases. Each degree of latitude is divided into 60 minutes, and each minute is divided into 60 seconds.

Latitude Zones

There are three primary latitude zones: the tropical zone between the Tropic of Cancer (23.5 degrees north) and the Tropic of Capricorn (23.5 degrees south), the temperate zones between the tropics and the Arctic and Antarctic Circles, and the polar zones within the Arctic and Antarctic Circles.

Study Guide

1. What is latitude and how is it measured?
2. How does latitude affect climate?
3. What are the primary latitude zones and their characteristics?
4. Why is latitude important for navigation?

Understanding latitude is essential for understanding global geography, climate patterns, and navigation. It is a fundamental concept that provides insight into the Earth's diverse ecosystems and environmental conditions.

[Latitude] Related Worksheets and Study Guides:

• Map SkillsSocial Studies • Fourth Grade
• Map SkillsSocial Studies • Fifth Grade
• Weather and ClimateScience • Fourth Grade
• Cycles of life and BiomesScience • Fifth Grade