You would remember that in an earlier post, we considered how to convert decimal degrees to the sexagesimal system. But in this post, we will be considering the reverse, how to convert from the sexagesimal system to decimal.
Read More: The 6 Easy Steps To Converting From Decimal to Sexagesimal (121.135° to 121°8’6″)
Lest you think it will be a complicated process, it isn’t. Unlike the case of the decimals of the degree which we multiplied by 60, in this instance, we will be dividing the sexagesimals by 60. See the steps below:
Using the same figures as before, we would seek to convert 121°8′6″ to 121.135°.
- Like before, we will leave the numbers in degrees untouched. This means that 121° will remain the same.
- Starting from the least unit – which is the seconds, represented by 6″; this will be divided by 60
- This division gives the result, 0.1 ( 6/60 = 0.1)
- Add this result to the minutes unit, represented by 8′. This resulting number from the addition is 8.1 ( 0.1 + 8 = 8.1)
- Divide this number by 60. Doing this will give you 0.135 ( 8.1 / 60 = 0.135)
- Finally, add this decimal to the 121 from Step (1) and you have 121.35 ( 0.135 + 120 = 121.135°). Don’t forget your unit!
See how simple and straightforward it is? In one system of conversion, you multiply the decimals by 60; and in the other you divide the sexagesimals by 60. Fin!
Feeling confident enough to try out some other examples? Do tell us about your trials in the Comments.
