What does the term "latitude" refer to?

The term "latitude" specifically refers to the measurement that determines how far north or south a location is from the equator, which is designated as zero degrees latitude. Latitude is expressed in degrees, with the North Pole at 90 degrees north and the South Pole at 90 degrees south. This system of parallels allows for the precise location of points on the Earth's surface and is crucial for navigation and geography.

By understanding latitude, one can also infer broader climatic trends, as different latitudinal zones correlate with various climate types and environmental conditions. This concept is fundamental in geography, as latitude directly influences temperature, daylight hours, and seasonal changes, highlighting its importance in both physical geography and human activities, such as agriculture and urban planning.