Reno is farther west than los angeles

Reno is Farther West than Los Angeles

When it comes to geography, certain facts can surprise us and challenge our assumptions. One such intriguing fact is that Reno, a prominent city in Nevada, is actually farther west than the well-known city of Los Angeles, California.

At first glance, this information may seem counterintuitive, as Los Angeles is often associated with being the westernmost major city in the United States due to its proximity to the Pacific Ocean. However, a closer look at the map reveals the surprising truth.

Reno is situated in the western part of Nevada, near the border of California. Its coordinates, approximately 39.5° N latitude and 119.8° W longitude, place it farther west in terms of longitude than Los Angeles. Los Angeles, on the other hand, is located at around 34.0° N latitude and 118.2° W longitude.

To put it simply, Reno’s longitude is around 119.8 degrees west, while Los Angeles’ longitude is approximately 118.2 degrees west. This makes Reno about 1.6 degrees farther west than its widely known counterpart.

This geographic truth showcases the nuances of longitude and reminds us that the concept of “west” is not solely determined by proximity to the Pacific Ocean. The curvature of the Earth’s surface and the arcing lines of longitude contribute to the variation in distance between locations.

It’s important to note that while Reno may be slightly farther west than Los Angeles, each city has its unique charm and offerings. Both cities have played significant roles in the growth and development of the American West.

So, next time you find yourself marveling at the scenic coastline of Los Angeles, remember that there’s another city even farther west on the map. Reno serves as a reminder that geography can surprise us and challenge our assumptions, making the world a fascinating place to explore.

Source: Mental Floss