Reading latitude and longitude on a map involves understanding two sets of coordinates that pinpoint a specific location on Earth's surface.
Latitude:
- Definition: Latitude measures the distance north or south of the Equator.
- Lines: Lines of latitude (also called parallels) run horizontally around the Earth.
- Measurement: Latitude is measured in degrees (°), minutes ('), and seconds ("). The Equator is 0°, the North Pole is 90°N, and the South Pole is 90°S.
- Example: 45°N latitude represents a location halfway between the Equator and the North Pole.
Longitude:
- Definition: Longitude measures the distance east or west of the Prime Meridian.
- Lines: Lines of longitude (also called meridians) run vertically from pole to pole.
- Measurement: Longitude is also measured in degrees (°), minutes ('), and seconds ("). The Prime Meridian (located at Greenwich, England) is 0°. Locations east of the Prime Meridian are measured up to 180°E, and locations west of the Prime Meridian are measured up to 180°W.
- Example: 75°W longitude represents a location 75 degrees west of the Prime Meridian.
Putting It Together:
To read a specific location on a map using latitude and longitude, look for the point where a line of latitude intersects a line of longitude. The coordinates are usually written as (Latitude, Longitude) or Latitude, Longitude.
For example, the coordinates (34°03'N, 118°15'W) indicate a location 34 degrees, 3 minutes north of the Equator, and 118 degrees, 15 minutes west of the Prime Meridian. This happens to be near Los Angeles, California.
Most maps display latitude and longitude lines or markings along the edges. Digital maps usually show the coordinates of the cursor position. Understanding these coordinates enables precise location identification and navigation.
