Description
Return stepLength=hypot(secondX-firstX,secondY-firstY) for two supplied planar positions.
Specimen measurements and animal observations depend on a defined body part, reference value, unit, and observation window. A mass fraction, size ratio, or timing share summarizes those inputs. The counting and measurement conventions must stay explicit when comparing specimens or records.
Return stepLength=hypot(secondX-firstX,secondY-firstY) for two supplied planar positions.
When to use this tool
Use Animal Track Step Length when you need to compare supplied specimen measurements or observation records under an explicit reference and denominator.
How to use the tool and how it works
- Enter firstX, firstY, secondX, secondY. Use the units and conventions below.
- Run the tool. Correct any format, range, or cross-field input error before interpreting the output.
- Read stepLength. Use the output convention below.
Return stepLength=hypot(secondX-firstX,secondY-firstY) for two supplied planar positions.1
| Input field | Meaning and units | Accepted input |
|---|---|---|
| firstX | First X | Required. Finite number. |
| firstY | First Y | Required. Finite number. |
| secondX | Second X | Required. Finite number. |
| secondY | Second Y | Required. Finite number. |
| Output field | Interpretation | Returned shape |
|---|---|---|
| stepLength | Step Length | Required. Finite number. |
{
"input": {
"firstX": 1,
"firstY": 2,
"secondX": 4,
"secondY": 6
},
"output": {
"stepLength": 5
}
}Limitations and assumptions
- Coordinates must use one Cartesian length unit and reference frame. This is straight-line separation, not geodesic distance, traveled path length, or a gait interpretation.
- The field tables state structural bounds; the mechanics also specify cross-field constraints. Malformed inputs and unsupported domains cause errors. A successful false flag, empty branch value, or zero placeholder has the meaning stated above and is distinct from an input error.
- Numeric calculations use binary floating point unless exact decimal-integer arithmetic is explicitly stated. No hidden measurement tolerance or decimal rounding is added; nonfinite or out-of-contract results are rejected. Signed zero is exported as zero.
Alternative or Complementary methods
Use compatible measurements and observation records to verify the chosen denominator and reference before interpreting a specimen comparison.
References
Similar or alternative tools
- Animal Track Foot Contact Reference
Resolve a supplied foot-contact displacement along a counterclockwise heading and its left normal.
- Animal Track Stride Width Ratio
Return strideWidthRatio=strideLength/trackWidth and relativeStride=strideLength/footLength.