How to Use Cylindrical Coordinate Calculator
The Cylindrical Coordinate Calculator converts points in three-dimensional space. Choose Cartesian to cylindrical when you know x, y, and z. Choose cylindrical to Cartesian when you know r, theta, and z. The Cylindrical Coordinate Calculator lets you select degrees or radians for the angle.
Formula & Theory — Cylindrical Coordinate Calculator
The Cylindrical Coordinate Calculator uses:
r = sqrt(x^2 + y^2)
theta = atan2(y, x)
x = r cos(theta)
y = r sin(theta)
z = z
Using atan2 keeps the correct quadrant. This makes the Cylindrical Coordinate Calculator more reliable than using a simple arctangent ratio.
Use Cases for Cylindrical Coordinate Calculator
Use the Cylindrical Coordinate Calculator in calculus, physics, engineering, 3D modeling, vector analysis, and spatial geometry. It is useful whenever a circular horizontal position plus height is easier than rectangular coordinates.