What does a degree, marked as a °, signify in the context of geographical measurement?

A degree, denoted by the symbol °, signifies a unit of angular measurement, which is fundamental in geographical contexts. It is used to express the size of angles, particularly in the measurement of latitude and longitude on the Earth's surface. Latitude ranges from 0° at the Equator to 90° at the poles, while longitude measures east and west from the Prime Meridian, also in degrees. This angular measurement is crucial for navigation, mapping, and understanding Earth's geography, as it helps determine specific locations on the globe based on their coordinates. The clarity and precision provided by degrees are vital for accurately locating places, calculating distances, and navigating in aviation and maritime operations.