University of Central Florida (UCF) GEO1200 Physical Geography Midterm Practice Exam

Longitude measures distances in an east-west direction. It is defined by lines known as meridians, which run from the North Pole to the South Pole. Each degree of longitude represents a specific distance on the Earth's surface, but this distance varies depending on the latitude due to the curvature of the Earth. The Prime Meridian, which is located at 0 degrees longitude, serves as the starting point for measuring longitude, with values increasing to the east and decreasing to the west.

In contrast, latitude measures distances north and south of the Equator, running parallel to each other and providing a framework for locating positions on the planet in a north-south direction. Understanding the distinction between these two types of measurements is essential for geographical navigation and mapping.