How to Calculate Distance
What is Distance?
The distance formula calculates the straight-line distance between two coordinate points. It is derived from the Pythagorean theorem: the horizontal and vertical differences form the legs of a right triangle, and the distance is the hypotenuse.
Step-by-Step Guide
- 1Find Δx = x₂ − x₁ (horizontal difference)
- 2Find Δy = y₂ − y₁ (vertical difference)
- 3Distance d = √(Δx² + Δy²)
Worked Examples
Input
(0,0) to (3,4)
Result
5
√(9+16)=5 — classic 3-4-5 right triangle
Input
(1,1) to (7,9)
Result
10
√(36+64)=√100=10