A software tool or online application designed for converting between Cartesian coordinates (x, y, z) and spherical coordinates (, , ), representing a point in three-dimensional space using radial distance, polar angle, and azimuthal angle. For instance, a point located at (1, 1, 1) in Cartesian coordinates can be represented as (3, /4, /4) in spherical coordinates. These tools typically allow users to input values in one coordinate system and automatically receive the equivalent values in the other.
Facilitating conversions between these two coordinate systems is essential in fields like physics, engineering, and computer graphics. Spherical coordinates simplify calculations involving spherical symmetry, such as gravitational fields or sound wave propagation. Historically, the development of spherical coordinates is intertwined with advancements in astronomy and navigation, offering a more intuitive framework for describing celestial positions and terrestrial locations.