Latitude (theory)

Latitude is a geographic coordinate that measures a location's distance north or south of the Earth's equator, which is at 0°. Lines of latitude, called parallels, run horizontally around the globe. They are expressed in degrees, with the North Pole at 90°N and the South Pole at 90°S. Latitude helps identify exact locations on Earth's surface and influences climate, weather patterns, and daylight hours. It is fundamental in cartography and navigation, providing a grid that, combined with longitude, uniquely specifies any point on the planet.