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Angle Calculation Formula:
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The angle of elevation is the angle between the horizontal line and the line of sight when looking upward at an object. The angle of depression is the angle between the horizontal line and the line of sight when looking downward at an object. Both angles are measured from the horizontal plane.
The calculator uses the trigonometric formula:
Where:
Explanation: The arctangent function calculates the angle whose tangent is the ratio of height to distance. This gives the angle from the horizontal plane.
Details: These calculations are essential in surveying, navigation, architecture, engineering, and physics. They help determine heights of buildings, distances to objects, and are crucial in trigonometric applications across various fields.
Tips: Enter the vertical height and horizontal distance in meters. Both values must be positive numbers. The calculator will compute the angle in degrees from the horizontal plane.
Q1: What's the difference between angle of elevation and depression?
A: Angle of elevation is measured upward from horizontal, while angle of depression is measured downward from horizontal. Both use the same mathematical calculation.
Q2: Can this calculator be used for both elevation and depression?
A: Yes, the calculation is identical for both. The context determines whether it's elevation or depression.
Q3: What units should I use for height and distance?
A: The calculator uses meters, but you can use any consistent units as long as both height and distance are in the same units.
Q4: What is the range of possible angles?
A: The angle ranges from 0° (completely horizontal) to 90° (vertical). At 45°, height equals distance.
Q5: How accurate is this calculation?
A: The calculation is mathematically precise. Accuracy depends on the precision of your height and distance measurements.