Final answer:
A quadrangle on a map is defined by the intersection of pairs of latitudes and longitudes, which form part of the geographic coordinate system for locating any point on Earth. These coordinates are crucial for navigation and accurate mapmaking.
Step-by-step explanation:
A check or quadrangle (often abbreviated as quad) is defined by the intersection of pairs of latitudes and longitudes. These are the fundamental components of the Earth's geographic coordinate system, which allows for the precise locating of any point on the globe. A quadrangle can refer specifically to a topographic map sheet published by the United States Geological Survey with boundaries defined by these lines of latitude and longitude, forming a grid pattern called the graticule.
Lines of latitude are circles of various sizes around the Earth, with the equator at zero degrees. Lines of longitude run from pole to pole, intersecting at the North and South Poles. The equator and the prime meridian serve as the starting points for measuring these lines, and together, they divide the Earth into a grid which helps to locate geographical positions in terms of degrees north or south, and east or west.
The coordinates formed by latitude and longitude are critical for various tasks, such as navigation by pilots or ship captains, and are also used for creating accurate maps of both the Earth and the celestial objects in the sky by astronomers. Learning about latitude and longitude is essential for understanding not only Earth's geography but also the apparent motion of objects in the sky from various places on Earth.