What is the term for lines that are parallel to the Equator?

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The term for lines that are parallel to the Equator is latitude. Latitude lines measure the distance north or south from the Equator, which is conventionally defined as zero degrees. These lines are used in navigation and geography to help identify specific locations on the Earth's surface. Each line of latitude is a full circle around the Earth that runs parallel to the Equator, providing a consistent framework for determining how far one is from the Equator, which is critical for mapping and navigational purposes.

In contrast, longitude lines run from the North Pole to the South Pole and measure distances east or west of the Prime Meridian. Equatorial Lines is not a standard term used in geospatial contexts, and while great circles are important for navigation and represent the shortest path between two points on the surface of a sphere, they are not parallel lines like those described by latitude.

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