Latitude lines measure the degrees north or south of which reference point?

Latitude lines are measured in degrees north or south of the Equator, which is designated as 0 degrees latitude. The Equator serves as the primary reference point for latitude because it divides the Earth into the Northern Hemisphere and the Southern Hemisphere. As you move away from the Equator towards the North Pole, the latitude increases to a maximum of 90 degrees north. Conversely, moving towards the South Pole increases the latitude to a maximum of 90 degrees south. This system allows for a standardized way to determine and communicate geographical locations on the Earth's surface.