Deriving and testing the great circle theory

Abstract

The primary focus of this exploration is to test the benefits of great circle routes over rhumb line routes. A distinct understanding of rhumb line routes was achieved using the derivation of logarithmic spiral arc length and research into the Mercator projection. Then an understanding of great circle theory was achieved through research into the spherical trigonometric formulae and application of these formulae into the distance formula. Data of the coordinates of different airport locations was collected and the two different distances were calculated. Finally, the values were compared in order to understand the difference between the two routes.