In order to facilitate studies of the Earth, scientists have divided it into imaginary lines that cut it vertically and horizontally.These lines are called parallels and meridians.
The parallels are always horizontal and the meridians are always vertical.
You parallelsthey are lines that run parallel to the Equator Line, which “cuts” the Earth in half, causing the division between the northern and southern hemispheres. The best known parallels are the Tropic of Cancer and the Tropic of Capricorn.
The best known parallels.
You meridiansthey are lines drawn vertically with respect to the Equator Line. The best known meridian is the Greenwich Meridian.
The only meridian to be named is Greenwich.
The parallels will give rise to what we call latitudes. The meridians will give rise to what we calllongitudes.
Together, thelatitudes and longitudesform the geographic coordinates. From the geographic coordinates it is possible to locate any existing point on Earth, which is very useful for travelers, sailors, and for those who like to know exactly where they are.
