1. What is the Distance Formula?

The distance formula calculates the straight-line distance between two points in a 2D plane. It's derived from the Pythagorean theorem and is fundamental in geometry, physics, and many applied sciences.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the distance formula:

Where:

• \( (x_1, y_1) \) — Coordinates of first point
• \( (x_2, y_2) \) — Coordinates of second point
• \( d \) — Distance between the points

Explanation: The formula calculates the hypotenuse of a right triangle formed by the differences in x and y coordinates.

3. Applications of Distance Calculation

Details: Used in navigation, computer graphics, physics, engineering, and anywhere spatial relationships between points need to be measured.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter the coordinates of two points in 2D space. The calculator will compute the straight-line distance between them.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: Can this be used for 3D coordinates?
A: This calculator is for 2D only. For 3D, the formula extends to include the z-coordinate: \( \sqrt{(x_2-x_1)^2 + (y_2-y_1)^2 + (z_2-z_1)^2} \).

Q2: Does the order of points matter?
A: No, distance is the same whether you calculate from point A to B or B to A.

Q3: What units does this use?
A: The result is in the same units as your input coordinates. Make sure both points use the same coordinate system.

Q4: Can I use negative coordinates?
A: Yes, the formula works with any real number coordinates.

Q5: How accurate is the calculation?
A: The calculator provides results with 4 decimal places precision.