How this calculation works
Find angular separation without a discontinuity across north.
THE FORMULA
Reduce the difference to [−180°,180°) and take its magnitudeA worked example
350° and 10° are separated by 20°.
Good to know
Both bearings must use the same angular convention.
Reference: OpenStax Algebra and Trigonometry (opens in a new tab) ↗
Read the result
Find angular separation without a discontinuity across north.
The primary result is labeled “Smallest separation (°)”. Keep the input definitions in view when comparing this result with another method.
Try a related calculation
Both bearings must use the same angular convention.
For a related exercise, try the quadratic equation solver.
A few questions, answered
How can I check the default inputs by hand?
350° and 10° are separated by 20°.
Which rule does this calculator apply?
Reduce the difference to [−180°,180°) and take its magnitude