Difference Between Latitude and Longitude

Introduction:

Latitude and longitude are used to describe a specific location on the Earth’s surface. Both latitude and longitude are angles that help us understand the position of any place on the Earth’s surface. Latitude measures how far north or south a place is from the equator, while longitude tells us how far east or west a place is from the prime meridian.

What is Latitude?

Latitude is the measurement that indicates the angular distance of a location north or south of the equator. The equator is an imaginary line that circles the Earth halfway between the North and South poles, at 0° latitude. Latitude is measured in degrees, minutes, and seconds. The maximum value of latitude is 90°N (North Pole) and 90°S (South Pole).

What is Longitude?

Longitude is the measurement of the angular distance of a location east or west of the prime meridian. The prime meridian is an imaginary line that runs from the North Pole through Greenwich, UK, to the South Pole, at 0° longitude. Longitude is measured in degrees, minutes, and seconds. Longitudes range from 0° to 180°E (East) or 0° to 180°W (West).

Difference Between Latitude and Longitude:

The difference between latitude and longitude lies in the type of measurement. Latitude is an angle that measures the north-south position of a point on the Earth’s surface, whereas longitude is an angle that measures the east-west position of a point on the Earth’s surface.

Another significant difference is that the maximum value of latitude is 90°N or 90°S, while the maximum value of longitude is 180°E or 180°W. Therefore, it is essential to mention both properties while specifying the location of any place on the Earth’s surface in geographical coordinates.

Conclusion:

In conclusion, latitude and longitude are essential tools that help us identify the exact location of any place on Earth. Both latitude and longitude are measured in degrees, minutes, and seconds, and their values range from 0° to 90° for latitude, and 0° to 180° for longitude. Understanding the difference between latitude and longitude is crucial while interpreting geographical coordinates.

Table difference between latitude and longitude

Latitude and Longitude Difference

Latitude	Longitude	Difference
0°	0°	0
0°	180°	180°
90°N	0°	90°N
90°S	0°	90°S
45°N	45°E	45°
30°S	120°W	150°