Degree (°) - Unit Information & Conversion
🔄 Quick Convert Degree
What is a Degree?
The degree is the most common unit of angle measurement, dividing a full circle into 360 equal parts. Used in geometry, navigation, surveying, and everyday angle measurements worldwide.
History of the Degree
Originated from ancient Babylonian mathematics (base 60 number system). 360 was chosen because it has many divisors and approximates days in a year. Standard angle unit for over 2000 years.
Quick Answer
What is a Degree? A degree (°) is a unit of angle equal to 1/360th of a full circle. Used universally for measuring angles in geometry, navigation, and everyday applications. 90° = right angle, 180° = straight angle, 360° = full circle. Use our angle converter to convert degrees to radians, gradians, and other units instantly.
Quick Comparison Table
| Degrees | Radians | Gradians | Context | Convert Now |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 0° | 0 | 0 | Starting point | ° to rad → |
| 30° | π/6 ≈ 0.524 | 33.33 | Common angle | ° to rad → |
| 45° | π/4 ≈ 0.785 | 50 | Diagonal | ° to rad → |
| 60° | π/3 ≈ 1.047 | 66.67 | Equilateral triangle | ° to rad → |
| 90° | π/2 ≈ 1.571 | 100 | Right angle | ° to rad → |
| 180° | π ≈ 3.142 | 200 | Straight angle | ° to rad → |
| 360° | 2π ≈ 6.283 | 400 | Full circle | ° to rad → |
Definition
A degree (°) divides a full circle into 360 equal parts. 1° = 1/360 of a full rotation = 60 arcminutes = 3600 arcseconds.
Common Uses
Navigation: Compass bearings (North = 0°, East = 90°, South = 180°, West = 270°).
Geometry: Measuring angles in triangles, polygons, and circles.
Geography: Latitude and longitude coordinates.
Construction: Slope angles, roof pitch, ramp grades.
Degree Conversion Formulas
To Radian:
To Gradian:
To Arcminute:
To Arcsecond:
To Turn:
To Revolution:
To Quadrant:
To Gon:
To Mil:
Frequently Asked Questions
Formula: radians = degrees × (π/180) = degrees × 0.01745 Examples:
- 30° = 0.524 rad = π/6
- 45° = 0.785 rad = π/4
- 90° = 1.571 rad = π/2
- 180° = 3.142 rad = π Degrees to Radians converter →
Convert Degree
Need to convert Degree to other angle units? Use our conversion tool.