Latitude/Longitude in Decimal Degrees

Latitude/Longitude coordinates are often presented in degrees, minutes, and seconds, such as 39°45’30" (39 degrees, 45 minutes, 30 seconds). However, Didger can only plot values in decimal degrees. So, for example, 39°45’ is referred to as 39.75° in Didger.

Converting from degrees, minutes, and seconds is actually quite easy. Consider the latitude value 39°25’30". This value needs to be converted to use it in Didger. There are 60 minutes in one degree and 3600 seconds in one degree. To convert minutes and seconds to decimal degrees, divide minutes by 60, divide seconds by 3600, and then add the results to obtain the decimal equivalent.

Conversion Equation:

Decimal Degrees = Degrees + (Minutes / 60) + (Seconds / 3600)

Example

Consider the latitude value 39°25'30". To convert 39°25’30" to decimal degrees:

First, convert minutes (25') and seconds (30") to their degree equivalents and add the results.

25'/60 = 0.4167

30"/3600 = 0.0083

0.4167 + 0.0083 = 0.425

Then, add this number to the number of degrees.

39 + 0.425 = 39.425

The final result is the decimal degree value.

39°25'30" = 39.425°