11. longitude/meridian

Longitude lines are imaginary lines that run vertically across the globe and allow people to find exact locations. According to the coordinates one finds, they can find the exact location of a city, a school, or something even more precise. The units of measurement one uses are degrees, minutes, and seconds. Degrees are the broadest and most common unit, with minutes and seconds documenting more exact location. The Prime Meridian is the most important line of longitude as it marks 0 degrees on the earth vertically. Unlike latitude lines, longitude lines are not parallel to each other, as they meet at the North and South Poles. As Ms. Beniretto said in class, if one was to go to one of the Poles and spin in a circle at the very top of the earth, they would pass through every line of longitude.

Sources: Class Notes

http://www.broward.org/library/bienes/lii14010.htm

http://www.broward.org/library/bienes/lii14010.htm

Photo: http://web.gccaz.edu/~lnewman/gph111/topic_units/Systems_grid_proj/systems_time/systems_time2.html

Sarah Jane Lasley