right angles to the horizon

[fenglish]

Hi,

I found the definition of "vertical" from vertical: Definition, Synonyms from Answers.com,

adj.

• Being or situated at right angles to the horizon; upright.

In above sentence, it says "right angles to the horizon", why it is "right angles", why it isn't "left angles"??

I think the "vertical" should be no any "left" or "right" direction to the horizon, it just related to "up" or "down".

Thanks.

 

[DougLewis]

Hi,

I found the definition of "vertical" from vertical: Definition, Synonyms from Answers.com,

adj.

• Being or situated at right angles to the horizon; upright.

In above sentence, it says "right angles to the horizon", why it is "right angles", why it isn't "left angles"??

I think the "vertical" should be no any "left" or "right" direction to the horizon, it just related to "up" or "down".

Thanks.

A right angle is a mathematical expression describing a 90 degree angle from a line.

Vertical describes up and down from a horizontal plane.

Perpendicular is probably a better word.