How to use the Distance Calculator
Estimate distance from point 1 x, point 1 y, point 2 x with the Distance Calculator. It includes 2D coordinates, 3D coordinates, Latitude & longitude workflows, so choose the one that matches the values you actually know. Use it to check the arithmetic while keeping the displayed method and entered values with your work.
Step by step
- For the Distance example, select 2D coordinates and enter point 1 x, point 1 y, point 2 x, point 2 y. Keep each value in the unit displayed beside its field.
- Review the selected Distance workflow and inputs, then read distance in the result panel.
- Change one Distance assumption at a time to compare scenarios. Use Reset to restore this tool's worked example values.
How the calculation works
Uses Euclidean distance for coordinates and the haversine great-circle model for latitude/longitude.
Worked example
To reproduce the Distance worked example, reset the calculator. Select the 2D coordinates workflow. Use point 1 x 1 m; point 1 y 2 m; point 2 x 4 m; point 2 y 6 m. The result is distance of 5 m. 2D coordinates: Uses Euclidean distance for coordinates and the haversine great-circle model for latitude/longitude. Review the displayed units before comparing the result.
Understanding the result
The Distance reports distance. Use it to check the arithmetic while keeping the displayed method and entered values with your work. The result depends on the entered values, selected mode, and displayed mathematical assumptions.
How to check the answer
Check the Distance answer by substituting distance back into the stated relationship. Test a simple value such as zero, one, or an equal pair, then confirm that sign, scale, units, and rounding match Uses Euclidean distance for coordinates and the haversine great-circle model for latitude/longitude.
Common questions
What does the Distance calculate?
Estimate distance from point 1 x, point 1 y, point 2 x with the Distance Calculator.
Which inputs does the Distance example use?
The worked example uses point 1 x, point 1 y, point 2 x, point 2 y in the 2D coordinates workflow. Other workflows can show different fields. Keep the chosen workflow and units with the result when comparing calculations.
Is the Distance result exact?
The result depends on the entered values, selected mode, and displayed mathematical assumptions. Recheck point 1 x, point 1 y, point 2 x and use distance only for a decision where that level of precision is appropriate.