Latitude, Longitude, & Polaris

Front

What is the definition of latitude?

Back

Latitude is the measurement of distance north or south of the Equator, expressed in degrees.

Front

What is the definition of longitude?

Back

Longitude is the measurement of distance east or west of the Prime Meridian, expressed in degrees.

Front

What is the Prime Meridian?

Back

The Prime Meridian is the 0 degree longitude line that runs through Greenwich, England.

Front

What is Polaris?

Back

Polaris, also known as the North Star, is located nearly directly above the North Pole and is used for navigation.

Front

How do you determine the angle of Polaris above the horizon?

Back

The angle of Polaris above the horizon is equal to the latitude of the observer in the Northern Hemisphere.

Front

What are the coordinates for the Equator?

Back

0° latitude.

Front

What are the coordinates for the North Pole?

Back

90° N latitude.

Front

What are the coordinates for the South Pole?

Back

90° S latitude.

Front

What is the significance of the Tropic of Cancer?

Back

The Tropic of Cancer is located at 23.5° N latitude and marks the northernmost point where the sun can be directly overhead.

Front

What is the significance of the Tropic of Capricorn?

Back

The Tropic of Capricorn is located at 23.5° S latitude and marks the southernmost point where the sun can be directly overhead.