How is latitude measured in geographical terms?

Latitude is a geographical coordinate that specifies the north-south position of a point on the Earth's surface. It is measured in degrees, with the Equator at 0 degrees latitude, moving to 90 degrees north at the North Pole and 90 degrees south at the South Pole. This system divides the Earth into northern and southern hemispheres, allowing locations to be identified based on their distance from the Equator.

The other options do not accurately reflect how latitude is defined or measured. East to West typically refers to longitude, which measures positions in relation to the Prime Meridian. Up and down, as well as diagonal, do not describe the concept of latitude appropriately within the context of geographical coordinates. Thus, latitude's clear delineation along the north-south axis is what makes the chosen answer correct.