Imaginary lines that run north to south but measure distance east to west are called what?

Longitude lines are the imaginary lines that run north to south on the Earth's surface while measuring the distance east to west from the Prime Meridian. The Prime Meridian is designated as 0 degrees longitude, and as you move east or west from this line, the degrees of longitude increase up to 180 degrees in each direction. This system of lines helps in identifying specific locations on Earth, allowing for accurate navigation and mapping. Latitude lines, in contrast, run east to west and measure the distance north and south of the Equator, which is designated as 0 degrees latitude. Therefore, the understanding of the distinction between the two types of lines is key to grasping the geography-related concepts in social studies.