Calculated results
Complete calculation
Enter valid values, then select Calculate.
Calculator inputs
Earth visualisation
Visual interpretation
Latitude circles shrink as they approach either geographic pole. The equator remains Earth’s widest east-west circle. Both poles reduce the parallel circumference to exactly zero.
Sphere mode uses one radius for every direction. Ellipsoid mode accounts for Earth’s equatorial bulge. WGS 84 usually provides stronger geodetic accuracy worldwide today.
Circumference comparison chart
Latitude comparison table
| Latitude | Parallel radius | Circumference | Distance per longitude degree |
|---|
Formula used
Spherical model: Cφ = 2π(R + h)cos(φ).
Prime vertical radius: N = a ÷ √(1 − e²sin²φ).
Ellipsoidal model: Cφ = 2π(N + h)cos(φ).
Meridian radius: M = a(1 − e²) ÷ (1 − e²sin²φ)³ᐟ².
How to use
- Select the required calculation mode.
- Enter latitude using your preferred coordinate format.
- Choose a spherical or ellipsoidal Earth model.
- Set units, precision, height, and optional travel values.
- Select Calculate and review every generated result.
- Export, print, copy, or share the calculation.
Example data
| Example | Latitude | Model | Height | Suggested mode |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Equator check | 0° | WGS 84 | 0 m | Basic |
| Mid-latitude city | 45° N | WGS 84 | 100 m | Advanced |
| Longitude trip | 30° N | GRS 80 | 0 m | Longitude distance |
| Reverse travel | 60° N | WGS 84 | 0 m | Reverse |
Understanding the results
Longitude spacing changes continuously with latitude. One degree spans farther near the equator. Near either pole, equal longitude angles cover tiny distances.
Geodetic latitude uses the ellipsoid’s surface normal. Geocentric latitude uses a line toward Earth’s centre. Their difference matters most across many middle latitudes.
Ellipsoidal height measures distance above the reference ellipsoid. It differs from everyday elevation above mean sea level. Terrain and geoid undulations remain outside this smooth model.
Frequently asked questions
What is circumference at latitude?
It is the length of a complete latitude circle. The equator has the greatest possible parallel circumference. Every other parallel becomes smaller toward either geographic pole.
Why is WGS 84 recommended?
WGS 84 models Earth as a flattened ellipsoid. It supports modern mapping, navigation, and global positioning workflows. Its published dimensions enable consistent calculations across many applications.
Why does the result reach zero?
A latitude circle collapses at either geographic pole. Its radius becomes zero when latitude reaches ninety degrees. Therefore its circumference and longitude spacing also become zero.
Does elevation change the circumference?
Yes, positive height slightly increases the parallel radius. Negative height reduces that radius under the chosen model. Large height changes should receive careful physical interpretation afterward.
What is longitude distance?
Longitude distance follows a selected parallel around Earth. It depends on latitude and the longitude angle travelled. Equal angles produce shorter distances nearer either geographic pole.
What does one longitude degree represent?
It equals one three-hundred-sixtieth of the latitude circumference. The value is greatest along the equatorial parallel. It steadily decreases as latitude approaches either geographic pole.
What is geocentric latitude?
Geocentric latitude references a line toward Earth’s centre. Geodetic latitude references the local ellipsoid surface normal. They match at equator and poles, but differ elsewhere.
Is rotational speed orbital speed?
No, rotational speed describes motion caused by Earth’s spin. Orbital speed describes Earth travelling around the Sun. These motions use different paths, periods, and physical meanings.
Does this include mountains and the geoid?
No, calculations use smooth spherical or ellipsoidal references. Height adjustments remain mathematical offsets from that chosen surface. Detailed terrain and gravity variations require specialised geodetic data.