1. What is the Longitude Calculation Formula?

The longitude calculation formula estimates geographic longitude based on time difference from Greenwich Mean Time (GMT). It utilizes the principle that Earth rotates 15 degrees per hour, completing a full 360-degree rotation every 24 hours.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the longitude calculation formula:

Where:

• \( T \) — Time difference from GMT in hours
• \( L \) — Longitude in degrees

Explanation: The formula converts time difference to angular measurement, with positive values indicating east longitude and negative values indicating west longitude.

3. Importance of Longitude Calculation

Details: Calculating longitude from time difference is fundamental to navigation, cartography, and understanding time zones. It helps determine precise geographic location and is essential for accurate mapping and GPS systems.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter the time difference from GMT in hours. Positive values indicate locations east of Greenwich, while negative values indicate locations west of Greenwich.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: Why is 15 degrees equivalent to one hour?
A: Earth completes a 360-degree rotation every 24 hours, so 360°/24h = 15° per hour.

Q2: How accurate is this calculation?
A: This provides a theoretical calculation. Actual longitude may vary slightly due to time zone boundaries not strictly following meridians.

Q3: What about daylight saving time?
A: Ensure you're using standard time, not daylight saving time, for accurate calculations.

Q4: How are negative longitudes handled?
A: The calculator automatically converts results to the conventional -180° to +180° range.

Q5: Can this be used for navigation?
A: While theoretically sound, modern navigation should use GPS technology for precise positioning.