Distance Calculator On Map

Distance Formula:

\[ D = \text{Path Length} \]

Start Point Latitude:

Start Point Longitude:

End Point Latitude:

End Point Longitude:

Distance (miles):

Unit Converter ▲

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1. What is a Distance Calculator On Map?

Definition: This calculator estimates the distance between two points on Earth's surface using their latitude and longitude coordinates.

Purpose: It helps travelers, geographers, and logistics professionals determine the "as the crow flies" distance between locations.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the Haversine formula:

\[ D = 2r \cdot \arcsin\left(\sqrt{\sin^2\left(\frac{\Delta\phi}{2}\right) + \cos\phi_1 \cdot \cos\phi_2 \cdot \sin^2\left(\frac{\Delta\lambda}{2}\right)}\right) \]

Where:

\( D \) — Distance between points (miles)
\( r \) — Earth's radius (3958.8 miles)
\( \phi \) — Latitude in radians
\( \lambda \) — Longitude in radians
\( \Delta \) — Difference between the two points

Explanation: The formula calculates the great-circle distance between two points on a sphere from their longitudes and latitudes.

3. Importance of Distance Calculation

Details: Accurate distance measurements are crucial for navigation, flight planning, shipping logistics, and geographic analysis.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter the latitude and longitude for both start and end points. Valid ranges are -90 to 90 for latitude and -180 to 180 for longitude.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: Is this driving distance or straight-line distance?
A: This calculates straight-line (great-circle) distance, not driving distance which would be longer due to roads and terrain.

Q2: How accurate is this calculation?
A: Very accurate for most purposes, though it assumes Earth is a perfect sphere (it's actually an oblate spheroid).

Q3: Can I use decimal degrees or DMS format?
A: This calculator uses decimal degrees. Convert from DMS (Degrees, Minutes, Seconds) by: Decimal = Degrees + Minutes/60 + Seconds/3600.

Q4: Why does the result show miles instead of kilometers?
A: The calculator uses statute miles. To convert to km, multiply by 1.60934.

Q5: Where can I find coordinates for locations?
A: Use Google Maps - right click a location and select "What's here" to see coordinates.