Convert Earth's Polar Radius (R⊕ (p)) to Twip (twip) instantly.
About these units
Earth's Polar Radius (R⊕ (p))
The Earth's polar radius is approximately 6,356.8 km, slightly shorter than the equatorial radius due to the Earth's flattening at the poles. This measurement is critical in modeling Earth's shape, gravity field, and rotation. It impacts satellite orbits, geodetic surveys, and global positioning systems (GPS). The difference between the equatorial and polar radii also explains phenomena such as centrifugal force variations, equatorial bulges, and sea level differences across latitudes. Understanding R⊕ (p) is essential for precision navigation, Earth science, and astronomy.
Twip (twip)
A twip is a twentieth of a point, equal to 1/1440 of an inch. This extremely small unit originated in computer typography, particularly in early word processors and GUI layout systems developed by Microsoft and Apple. Because digital screens and software-based layout engines require highly precise internal measurements, twips allowed consistent and resolution-independent positioning of graphical objects and text. Even when the actual pixel density of displays varied, twips provided a device-agnostic coordinate system. Twips remain particularly relevant in Microsoft technologies such as Visual Basic, Windows API interfaces, and the formatting of Office documents. Although ordinary users rarely encounter the term, twips form part of the invisible numerical infrastructure that ensures consistent layout across different computers, printers, and operating systems.