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Earth Curve Formula:
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Earth curve calculation estimates the amount of curvature or drop due to Earth's spherical shape over a given distance. The approximate formula shows that the Earth drops about 8 inches per mile squared.
The calculator uses the Earth curve formula:
Where:
Explanation: This formula provides an approximate calculation of how much the Earth curves over a given distance due to its spherical shape.
Details: Understanding Earth's curvature is important for various applications including surveying, navigation, telecommunications, and understanding visual limitations over long distances.
Tips: Enter distance in miles. The value must be valid (distance > 0). The calculator will provide the approximate Earth curvature drop in inches.
Q1: Why is the Earth curve approximately 8 inches per mile squared?
A: This is a simplified approximation based on the Earth's radius of approximately 3,959 miles, giving about 8 inches of drop per mile squared.
Q2: Is this calculation accurate for all distances?
A: This is an approximation that works reasonably well for shorter distances. For more precise calculations over longer distances, more complex formulas accounting for refraction and other factors may be needed.
Q3: How does Earth's curvature affect long-distance visibility?
A: Earth's curvature limits how far we can see objects at ground level. Taller objects remain visible at greater distances as they extend above the curvature.
Q4: Does this calculation account for atmospheric refraction?
A: No, this simple formula does not account for atmospheric refraction, which can slightly extend visibility beyond what pure geometry would suggest.
Q5: What are practical applications of Earth curve calculations?
A: These calculations are used in surveying, engineering projects, telecommunications (signal propagation), navigation, and understanding visual phenomena.