Private Pilot Private Exam

Which statement about longitude and latitude is true?

1. Lines of longitude are parallel to the Equator

2. Lines of longitude cross the Equator at right angles

3. The 0º line of latitude passes through the Amazon River

4. Lines of latitude run from pole to pole

The correct answer is: Lines of longitude cross the Equator at right angles

The statement that lines of longitude cross the Equator at right angles is true. Longitude lines, which are also known as meridians, are the vertical lines that run from the North Pole to the South Pole. These lines intersect the Equator, which is the 0º line of latitude, at right angles, creating a grid system that helps to identify precise locations on the Earth's surface. Understanding the relationship between longitude and latitude is critical for navigation and mapping. Lines of latitude, on the other hand, run parallel to the Equator and measure how far north or south a location is, while lines of longitude measure how far east or west a location is from the Prime Meridian. This distinction is important for pilots, as accurate understanding of these measurements aids in navigation and planning flight paths.