Latitude and Longitude coordinates are often presented in degrees, minutes, and second, such as 39°25'30" (39 degrees, 25 minutes, 30 seconds). However, Voxler can only plot values in decimal degrees. So, for example, 39°25'30" is referred to as 39.425 in Voxler.
Converting from degrees, minutes, and seconds is actually quite easy. 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". This value needs to be converted to decimal degree in order to use it in Voxler.
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°
See Also