Intro to Latitude and Longitude

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Question 1: Are lines of latitude and longitude imaginary lines that cover the Earth like a grid?

• No

• Yes

Answer explanation

Yes. They are imaginary reference lines. But they have exact locations that everyone has agreed on, which is why they work.

Is the equator a line of longitude?

• No

• Yes

Answer explanation

No. It's a line of latitude with a value of 0 degrees.

Is a latitude line of 89 degrees near Antarctica?

• No

• Yes

Answer explanation

No. But a value of -89 degrees is. Latitude lines in the Southern Hemisphere are negative.

Is the most southern tip of Texas in the Southern Hemisphere?

• No

• Yes

Answer explanation

No. The entire continental US is in the Northern Hemisphere.

Do longitude lines refer to lines that go between the North Pole and the South Pole?

• No

• Yes

Answer explanation

Yes. They cross the equator at a right angle (perpendicular).

Is the prime meridian the name for the longitude line with a value of 90 degrees?

• No

• Yes

Answer explanation

No. The prime meridian is the longitude line with a value of 0 degrees.

Are lines of longitude parallel to each other, as shown on many rectangular maps?

• No

• Yes

Answer explanation

No. Rectangular maps may make them look parallel, which is why many maps distort the size or shapes of continents.

Can latitude and longitude be used to find a ship in the sea?

• No

• Yes

Answer explanation

Yes. Using a GPS enabled device, a ship's captain can locate the ship's position then use a radio to tell the Coast Guard the ship’s coordinate.