Circles of latitude

Circles of latitude, also known simply as latitudes, are imaginary horizontal lines that encircle the Earth parallel to the Equator. They are used to specify the north-south position of a point on the Earth's surface. Each circle of latitude is expressed in degrees, ranging from 0° at the Equator to 90° at the poles (90°N at the North Pole and 90°S at the South Pole).