General
Degrees to Seconds Calculator
Convert angles between degrees and seconds. Easily transform angular measurements for precise calculations.
Enter either degrees or seconds to see results
Related to Degrees to Seconds Calculator
The Degrees to Seconds Calculator is a specialized tool that converts angles between degrees and arc seconds. This conversion is fundamental in astronomy, surveying, and other fields requiring precise angular measurements. The calculator uses the standard relationship where one degree equals 3,600 arc seconds, allowing for accurate conversions in both directions.
Converting Degrees to Seconds
To convert degrees to arc seconds, the calculator multiplies the degree value by 3,600 (since 1 degree = 3,600 seconds). For example, 1 degree equals 3,600 arc seconds, 2 degrees equals 7,200 arc seconds, and so on. The calculator maintains the sign of the angle during conversion, ensuring accurate results for both positive and negative angles.
Converting Seconds to Degrees
To convert arc seconds to degrees, the calculator divides the number of seconds by 3,600. For example, 7,200 arc seconds equals 2 degrees, 1,800 arc seconds equals 0.5 degrees. This conversion maintains precision up to 6 decimal places for accurate results in scientific and technical applications.
Understanding the relationship between degrees and arc seconds is crucial for accurate interpretation and application of the results in various fields. The calculator provides results in both formats, allowing you to use the measurement system that best suits your needs.
Degree Format
Degrees are shown with the ° symbol and can include decimal points for precise measurements. This is the most common way to express angles in general applications. Positive values typically represent counterclockwise angles or directions to the north/east, while negative values represent clockwise angles or directions to the south/west.
Arc Second Format
Arc seconds are shown with the ″ symbol and represent very small angular measurements (1/3600th of a degree). This high-precision unit is particularly important in astronomy, where precise measurements are needed for telescope positioning and celestial object tracking. The calculator handles large numbers of arc seconds while maintaining accuracy.
1. What is an arc second?
An arc second is a very precise unit of angular measurement equal to 1/3600th of a degree. It is commonly used in astronomy and other scientific fields where extremely precise angular measurements are required. One degree contains 3,600 arc seconds, making it possible to express very small angular differences.
2. Why do we use arc seconds in measurements?
Arc seconds are used because they provide an extremely precise way to measure angles. This precision is crucial in astronomy for measuring the positions of celestial objects, in surveying for precise land measurements, and in engineering for high-precision alignment tasks. The small scale of arc seconds allows for the expression of minute angular differences that would be difficult to represent in degrees alone.
3. How accurate is this calculator?
The calculator provides results with 6 decimal places of precision for both degrees and arc seconds. This level of precision is sufficient for most scientific and technical applications, including astronomical calculations and high-precision surveying work. The conversion maintains accuracy throughout the calculation process.
4. Can I use negative values in the calculator?
Yes, the calculator accepts negative values for degrees and maintains the sign in the conversion to arc seconds. Negative angles are often used to indicate clockwise rotation or directions to the south or west in coordinate systems. The calculator handles these cases while maintaining the correct mathematical relationships.
5. What is the scientific source for this calculator?
This calculator implements the standard sexagesimal (base-60) conversion between degrees and arc seconds, which is a fundamental principle in angular measurement. The relationship of 1 degree = 3,600 arc seconds is established by the International Astronomical Union (IAU) and is used universally in astronomy and geodesy. This standard is also recognized by the International Bureau of Weights and Measures (BIPM) and is consistent with the International System of Units (SI) for angular measurements. The mathematical foundation dates back to ancient Babylonian mathematics and remains a cornerstone of modern astronomical and geodetic measurements.