GPS distance calculations often wrong due to latitude/longitude degree differences

A common error in calculating distances between GPS coordinates stems from treating degrees of longitude as equivalent to degrees of latitude. While a degree of latitude is consistently about 111,320 meters, a degree of longitude's distance shrinks with increasing latitude, becoming approximately 69,290 meters at 51.5° N. This discrepancy, when not accounted for, can lead to distance calculations being up to 61% too long, depending on the bearing of the leg. Another cause of error is using Web Mercator projection, which also inflates distances by a factor related to latitude. AI

RANK_REASON The item details a technical explanation and solution for a common problem in geospatial calculations, akin to a technical paper or guide. [lever_c_demoted from research: ic=1 ai=0.1]

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