Distance Calculator From Two Points

Distance Formula:

\[ d = \sqrt{(x_2 - x_1)^2 + (y_2 - y_1)^2} \]

Point 1 X-coordinate:

Point 1 Y-coordinate:

Point 2 X-coordinate:

Point 2 Y-coordinate:

Units:

Distance Between Points:

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1. What is the Distance Formula?

The distance formula calculates the straight-line distance between two points in a 2D plane. It's derived from the Pythagorean theorem and is fundamental in geometry and many practical applications.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the distance formula:

\[ d = \sqrt{(x_2 - x_1)^2 + (y_2 - y_1)^2} \]

Where:

\( (x_1, y_1) \) — Coordinates of the first point
\( (x_2, y_2) \) — Coordinates of the second point
\( d \) — Calculated distance between the points

Explanation: The formula calculates the hypotenuse of a right triangle formed by the differences in x and y coordinates.

3. Applications of Distance Calculation

Details: Used in navigation, computer graphics, physics, engineering, and many fields where measuring spatial relationships is important.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter coordinates for both points and select your preferred units. The calculator works with any consistent units (meters, feet, etc.).

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: Can this be used for 3D points?
A: This calculator is for 2D points only. For 3D, the formula extends to include the z-coordinate difference.

Q2: Does the order of points matter?
A: No, the distance is the same regardless of which point you consider first.

Q3: What about negative coordinates?
A: The formula works with any real numbers, including negatives.

Q4: How precise are the calculations?
A: Results are accurate to 4 decimal places.

Q5: Can I use this for geographic distances?
A: For large geographic distances, you should use the haversine formula that accounts for Earth's curvature.