The calculator provides a method to compute the angle measured clockwise from the north direction between any two given points specified by their geographical coordinates. This calculation is pivotal for accurate navigation and mapping efforts.
Formula of Bearing Angle Calculator
To find the bearing angle, we follow these steps:
Calculate the differences in coordinates:
delta_x = x2 – x1
delta_y = y2 – y1
Use the arctangent function to find the angle in radians:
theta = arctan(delta_y / delta_x)
Convert the angle from radians to degrees:
theta_degrees = theta * (180 / pi)
Adjust the angle based on the quadrant to find the bearing:
If delta_x >= 0:
bearing = 90 – theta_degrees
If delta_x < 0:
bearing = 270 – theta_degrees
Each step is designed to ensure the bearing is accurate, making it reliable for critical navigational decisions.
Table of Bearing Angles for Common Directions
To aid in quick references, below is a table of common directional bearings:
| Direction | Bearing Angle (degrees) |
|---|---|
| North | 0 |
| East | 90 |
| South | 180 |
| West | 270 |
| Northeast | 45 |
| Southeast | 135 |
| Southwest | 225 |
| Northwest | 315 |
This table can be used to avoid calculations for standard directions, providing immediate references.
Example of Bearing Angle Calculator
Consider two points A (34.052235, -118.243683) and B (40.712776, -74.005974). To calculate the bearing from A to B:
- Compute delta_x and delta_y:
delta_x = -74.005974 - (-118.243683) = 44.237709delta_y = 40.712776 - 34.052235 = 6.660541
- Calculate the angle:
theta = arctan(6.660541 / 44.237709) = 0.1504 radians
- Convert to degrees:
theta_degrees = 0.1504 * (180 / pi) ≈ 8.62 degrees
- Adjust for the bearing:
bearing = 90 - 8.62 = 81.38 degrees
This example shows the bearing from A to B is approximately 81 degrees east of north.
Most Common FAQs
A bearing angle represents the direction of one point from another, with north as the reference point, measured in degrees
Accurate bearing angles are crucial for effective navigation and planning in various engineering and geological applications.
Yes, the calculator can determine the bearing between any two geographical coordinates provided.