Quick Answer
1 degree (°) = 0.017453 radians (rad), and 1 radian = 57.2958 degrees. Radians is the larger unit, so the same physical amount needs a bigger number when measured in degrees. Convert either way with the live tool below or the dedicated converter pages.
Key Facts
- 1 degree (°) = 0.017453 rad
- 1 radian (rad) = 57.2958 °
- Conversion is exact multiplication - no rounding in the factor
- Table below covers common values in both directions
- Dedicated converters: °→rad and rad→° pages with live tools
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is bigger, a degree or a radian?
One degree equals 0.017453 rad, and one radian equals 57.2958 °. The unit with the larger factor is the physically bigger one.
How do I convert degrees to radians?
Multiply by the factor: value in rad = value in ° × 0.017453. Example: 5 ° = 0.087266 rad. Reverse: divide by 0.017453 (or multiply by 57.2958).
Why are degrees and radians different?
They are two different units measuring the same physical quantity. A degree is defined as exactly 0.017453 rad, and a radian as exactly 57.2958 °. Because the units differ in size, the number you write down for the same amount depends on which unit you use - the conversion factor itself is exact, with no rounding.
Is there a quick way to convert without a calculator?
Memorize the 1-to factor: 1 degree ≈ 0.017453 rad. Then multiply. For 2 ° that's ≈ 0.034907 rad.