Why is longitude measured in non-parallel lines coming from the poles instead of in parallel circles emanating from the Prime Meridian and IDL?
One of these ways is really easy and convenient for plotting a map and navigating. The other is really, really, really annoying. If you plotted the parallel circles on a flat map, you would get two sets of either concentric ellipses or circles depending on the projection you use, and you couldn't…
The Short Answer
One of these ways is really easy and convenient for plotting a map and navigating. The other is really, really, really annoying. If you plotted the parallel circles on a flat map, you would get two sets of either concentric ellipses or circles depending on the projection you use, and you couldn't keep your East/West coordinates fixed if you traveled due North/South.
Analysis
Key Concepts: Circles, ways, easy
This explanation focuses on circles, ways, easy and spans 64 words across 3 sentences. The depth is typical for General Knowledge questions (category average: 68 words), striking a balance between accessibility and completeness.
What This Answer Covers
The explanation opens with: “One of these ways is really easy and convenient for plotting a map and navigating.” It then elaboratesultimately building toward a complete picture across 3 connected points.
How This Compares in General Knowledge
Ranked #229 of 500 General Knowledge questions by answer depth (top 47%). This falls in the detailed tier — above average depth. The explanation goes beyond surface-level but keeps things accessible.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is there a simple explanation for why longitude measured in non-parallel lines coming from the poles instead of in parallel circles emanating from the prime meridian and idl?
One of these ways is really easy and convenient for plotting a map and navigating. The other is really, really, really annoying. If you plotted the parallel circles on a flat map, you would get two sets of either concentric ellipses or circles…
How detailed is this explanation compared to similar General Knowledge questions?
This is an above-average answer at 64 words, ranked #229 of 500 General Knowledge questions by depth. The key concepts covered are circles, ways, easy.
What approach does this answer take to explain longitude measured in non-parallel lines coming from the pol?
The explanation uses direct explanation across 64 words. It is categorized under General Knowledge and addresses the question through 1 analytical lens.