What does latitude measure?

Latitude specifically measures the distance in degrees north or south of the equator. It goes from 0 degrees at the equator to 90 degrees at the poles, with the North Pole at 90 degrees north and the South Pole at 90 degrees south. This system of measurement is essential for locating places on the Earth's surface and understanding how far a location is from the equator, which can influence climate and daylight hours.

In contrast, the other options refer to different geographical measurements or concepts. The prime meridian, for instance, relates to longitude, which measures east and west of the meridian line. The angle of the Earth's rotation pertains to time zones and the planet's rotation on its axis, while height above sea level describes elevation rather than geographical positioning in relation to the equator. Understanding latitude is crucial for navigation, mapping, and studying Earth's environment.