Degrees Conversion

A degree is a versatile unit used to measure angles, temperature, and even geographic coordinates. When it comes to angles, the degree’s origin traces back to ancient Babylon, where mathematicians used a base-60 number system. This influence is why there are 360 degrees in a circle—a number easily divisible into many integer parts, allowing for precise calculations.

In navigation and cartography, degrees are crucial for pinpointing locations on Earth’s surface through latitude and longitude. Notably, each degree of latitude encompasses about 111 kilometers on the planet’s surface. Meanwhile, in temperature measurement, degrees Fahrenheit and Celsius reveal a fascinating convergence: −40°F is equivalent to −40°C, a curiosity often unknown by many. These uses highlight the degree’s essential role across various fields of science and everyday life.