On the surface of the Earth, each degree of latitude corresponds approximately to what distance in kilometres?

Introduction / Context:
Understanding latitude and longitude is essential for map reading and navigation. A standard fact used in many questions is the approximate ground distance represented by one degree of latitude, which helps in estimating distances north or south on the globe. This value is nearly constant because lines of latitude are parallel circles around the Earth.

Given Data / Assumptions:
• Four approximate distances are provided: 112 km, 111 km, 110 km and 101 km. • The question asks which distance corresponds most closely to one degree of latitude. • We assume a spherical Earth approximation commonly used in geography teaching.

Concept / Approach:
Because the Earth is almost spherical, the distance between successive parallels of latitude is roughly the same everywhere. The generally accepted average distance for one degree of latitude is about 111 kilometres. In more detailed references, this value varies slightly with latitude, but for school and exam purposes 111 km is taken as the correct figure.

Step-by-Step Solution:
Step 1: Recall the commonly memorised rule that one degree of latitude is approximately 111 kilometres. Step 2: Compare this remembered value with the options given. Step 3: Choose 111 km as it exactly matches the standard approximation.

Verification / Alternative check:
Most geography texts explicitly state that the distance between two parallels of latitude one degree apart is about 111 km. Even when small variations are discussed, they still remain close to this value, confirming 111 km as the best choice among options.

Why Other Options Are Wrong:
Option A (112 km) is slightly higher than the typical rounded value and is not used as the standard approximation. Option C (110 km) is slightly lower and again does not match the widely memorised 111 km figure. Option D (101 km) is too small and clearly inconsistent with basic reference data.

Common Pitfalls:
• Some learners confuse the distance for longitude with that for latitude, even though only latitude has a nearly constant spacing. • Others round too aggressively to 110 km, but exams usually expect the more accurate 111 km answer.

Final Answer:
Each degree of latitude corresponds to approximately 111 km.