Embark on a captivating exploration of lab activity latitude and longitude answer key, a comprehensive guide that unlocks the secrets of Earth’s coordinate system. This resource provides a profound understanding of latitude and longitude, empowering you to navigate the globe with precision.

Through an engaging lab activity, you will master the art of measuring latitude and longitude, equipping you with the skills to locate any point on Earth’s vast expanse. Delve into the intricacies of this fundamental concept, gaining insights into its practical applications in navigation, mapping, and beyond.

Latitude and Longitude Basics

Latitude and longitude are two coordinates that are used to locate points on Earth. Latitude is the measurement of the angle between the equator and a point on Earth, while longitude is the measurement of the angle between the prime meridian and a point on Earth.

Latitude is measured in degrees, minutes, and seconds (DMS). The equator is at 0 degrees latitude, and the poles are at 90 degrees latitude. Latitude lines are parallel to the equator, and they run east and west.

Longitude is also measured in DMS. The prime meridian is at 0 degrees longitude, and it runs through Greenwich, England. Longitude lines are perpendicular to the equator, and they run north and south.

Latitude and longitude are used together to locate points on Earth. For example, the coordinates of the Statue of Liberty are 40°42’58.6″N 74°02’40.1″W.

Lab Activity: Measuring Latitude and Longitude: Lab Activity Latitude And Longitude Answer Key

The purpose of this lab activity is to measure the latitude and longitude of different locations.

• Materials needed:
• Globe
• Protractor
• Ruler
• Pen or pencil
• Steps:
1. Locate the equator on the globe.
2. Measure the angle between the equator and the location you want to measure.
3. Record the angle in degrees, minutes, and seconds.
4. Repeat steps 2-3 for the prime meridian.
5. The latitude and longitude of the location are the two angles you measured.

Answer Key for Lab Activity



The answers to the lab activity questions are as follows:

1. The latitude of the Statue of Liberty is 40°42’58.6″N.
2. The longitude of the Statue of Liberty is 74°02’40.1″W.
3. The latitude of the Eiffel Tower is 48°51’29.6″N.
4. The longitude of the Eiffel Tower is 2°17’40.2″E.
5. The latitude of the Great Wall of China is 40°25’23.4″N.
6. The longitude of the Great Wall of China is 116°15’29.3″E.

The reasoning behind the answers is as follows:

• The latitude of a location is the angle between the equator and the location.
• The longitude of a location is the angle between the prime meridian and the location.
• The Statue of Liberty is located north of the equator, so its latitude is positive.
• The Statue of Liberty is located west of the prime meridian, so its longitude is negative.
• The Eiffel Tower is located north of the equator, so its latitude is positive.
• The Eiffel Tower is located east of the prime meridian, so its longitude is positive.
• The Great Wall of China is located north of the equator, so its latitude is positive.
• The Great Wall of China is located east of the prime meridian, so its longitude is positive.

Extensions and Applications

Latitude and longitude are used in a variety of real-world applications, including:

• Navigation
• Mapping
• Surveying
• Astronomy
• Geography
• Meteorology
• Oceanography

For example, latitude and longitude are used to navigate ships and airplanes. They are also used to create maps and charts. Surveyors use latitude and longitude to measure the size and shape of land areas. Astronomers use latitude and longitude to locate stars and planets.

Geographers use latitude and longitude to study the Earth’s surface. Meteorologists use latitude and longitude to track weather patterns. Oceanographers use latitude and longitude to study the oceans.

There are a number of resources available for further exploration of latitude and longitude. The following are a few examples:

• National Geographic: Latitude and Longitude
• Encyclopædia Britannica: Latitude and Longitude
• NOAA: Latitude and Longitude Tutorial

FAQ Guide

What is the purpose of the lab activity on latitude and longitude?

The lab activity aims to provide hands-on experience in measuring latitude and longitude, enabling students to understand how these coordinates are used to locate points on Earth.

What materials are required for the lab activity?

The materials typically include a globe, protractor, ruler, and data table.

How can I use latitude and longitude in real-world applications?

Latitude and longitude are essential for navigation, mapping, weather forecasting, and various scientific and technological fields.