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What is the Longitude Extent of Brazil?

Published in Brazil Geography 2 mins read

The longitude extent of Brazil spans from 34°47'35" West to 73°58'59" West. This vast geographical range defines the country's east-west dimensions, covering a significant portion of the South American continent.

Understanding Brazil's Longitudinal Reach

Brazil's immense territorial size results in a substantial longitudinal span, impacting its time zones and diverse landscapes. The measurement from its easternmost point to its westernmost point is a key aspect of its geography.

The exact coordinates defining this extent are:

  • Easternmost Point: Ponta do Seixas, in João Pessoa, Paraíba, is the most easterly mainland point.
  • Westernmost Point: Serra da Contamana (or Pico Tamana), in Acre, near the border with Peru, marks the western extreme.

Geographic Coordinates Overview

To better visualize Brazil's vastness, here's a breakdown of its extreme longitude coordinates:

Direction Coordinate Significance
East 34°47'35" W Easternmost point of Brazil
West 73°58'59" W Westernmost point of Brazil

This extensive reach from 34°47'35" W to 73°58'59" W accounts for the country's wide variety of ecosystems and climactic zones, from the Atlantic coast to the Amazon rainforest.

Brazil's Overall Geographic Dimensions

While the longitude defines the east-west span, it's also helpful to consider Brazil's complete geographical footprint. The national territory stretches approximately 4,320.53 kilometers (2,685 miles) from east to west.

For a comprehensive understanding, the country's north-south extent is also significant, ranging from 5°16'10" N to 33°45'03" S latitude, covering about 4,397.53 kilometers (2,732 miles). This makes Brazil one of the largest countries in the world, with its territory extending significantly in both cardinal directions.

Understanding these precise geographic coordinates is fundamental to studying Brazil's physical geography, climate, and biodiversity. For more detailed information on Brazil's geography, reputable sources such as Wikipedia's Geography of Brazil page can provide further insights.