What is latitude a measure of?

Latitude is a measure of the distance north and south of the equator, which is designated as 0° latitude. It is expressed in degrees, with the North Pole at 90° North and the South Pole at 90° South. This measurement helps in pinpointing the location of a place on the Earth's surface in relation to the equator, which is a reference line that divides the planet into the Northern and Southern Hemispheres. Understanding latitude is crucial for navigation, climate studies, and geographical mapping, as it profoundly influences climatic conditions and ecosystems.

The other options address different geographic concepts; for example, distance east and west of the prime meridian pertains to longitude, while elevation above sea level measures vertical distance from sea level. The mention of rivers and lakes relates more to hydrology and regional geography rather than a defined measurement like latitude.