Is Oklahoma or Colorado farther west?

Travel Destinations

By Kristy Tolley

The Great Debate

A common debate among geographically-inclined individuals is whether Oklahoma or Colorado is farther west. While it may seem like a simple question, the answer is not as straightforward as one might think. To properly determine which state is farther west, we must first examine the geographical locations of both Oklahoma and Colorado, as well as understand the concept of longitude and how it plays a role in determining distance.

Geographical Location of Oklahoma

Oklahoma is located in the southern region of the United States, bordered by Texas, Arkansas, Missouri, Kansas, Colorado, and New Mexico. Its capital city is Oklahoma City, and it has a total area of approximately 69,899 square miles. Oklahoma’s geographical location is situated between the latitudes of 33.615201 and 37.002201 and the longitudes of -103.002998 and -94.431801.

Geographical Location of Colorado

Located in the western region of the United States, Colorado is a state bordered by Wyoming, Nebraska, Kansas, Oklahoma, New Mexico, and Utah. Its capital and largest city is Denver, and it covers an area of approximately 104,094 square miles. Colorado falls between the latitudes of 37.0000° N and 41.0000° N, and the longitudes of 102.0000° W and 109.0500° W.

Understanding the Concept of Longitude

Longitude is the geographical coordinate that determines a location’s position to the east or west of the prime meridian. The prime meridian, which is an imaginary line that runs from the North Pole to the South Pole, is used as the reference point for longitude measurements. Every degree of longitude is equivalent to approximately 69 miles.

Determining the Distance between Two Points

To determine the distance between two points, we must first calculate the difference between their longitudes. Once we have the difference in longitudes, we can multiply it by the conversion factor of approximately 69 miles per degree of longitude.

Comparing the Longitude of Oklahoma and Colorado

Oklahoma’s longitude ranges from -103.002998 to -94.431801 degrees west, while Colorado’s longitude ranges from -102.0000° W to -109.0500° W. Based on this information, we can see that Colorado has a more westerly longitude range and, therefore, is farther west than Oklahoma.

Latitude and Its Role in Geographical Location

Latitude is the geographical coordinate that determines a location’s position north or south of the equator. The equator, which is an imaginary line that circles the Earth, is used as the reference point for latitude measurements.

The Relationship Between Latitude and Longitude

Latitude and longitude work together to pinpoint a precise location on the Earth’s surface. The intersection of a location’s latitude and longitude is known as its geographic coordinates.

The Significance of Time Zones

Time zones are used to standardize time across the world. Because the Earth is divided into 24 longitudinal sections, each of which represents one hour of time, time zones allow us to coordinate activities across large distances.

A Closer Look at Oklahoma’s Time Zone

Oklahoma falls under the Central Time Zone, which is six hours behind Coordinated Universal Time (UTC-6).

A Closer Look at Colorado’s Time Zone

Colorado falls under the Mountain Time Zone, which is seven hours behind Coordinated Universal Time (UTC-7).

Conclusion: Which State is Farther West?

In conclusion, Colorado is farther west than Oklahoma. While both states have unique geographical features and are significant in their own right, Colorado’s more westerly longitude range solidifies its position as the more western state.

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Kristy Tolley

Kristy Tolley, an accomplished editor at TravelAsker, boasts a rich background in travel content creation. Before TravelAsker, she led editorial efforts at Red Ventures Puerto Rico, shaping content for Platea English. Kristy's extensive two-decade career spans writing and editing travel topics, from destinations to road trips. Her passion for travel and storytelling inspire readers to embark on their own journeys.

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