How to use the echo and sonar distance calculator
Find distance to a reflecting surface from echo delay. Enter echo delay, wave speed in the fields above; the distance is computed instantly and plotted on the chart so you can see how the answer changes.
Formula
Variables
- dt — Echo delay (s)
- v — Wave speed (m/s)
Worked example
With echo delay = 2 s, wave speed = Sound in air, the calculator gives distance ≈ 343 m.
Frequently asked questions
What is the formula for the echo and sonar distance calculation?
Distance (m) = v × dt / 2. Here dt is echo delay (s), v is wave speed (m/s).
What inputs do I need for the echo and sonar distance calculator?
You need echo delay in s, wave speed in m/s. Each field is pre-filled with a typical example so you can see how the result responds as you edit the numbers.
How do I use this calculator?
Type values into the input fields. Results and the chart update instantly. Use Reset to restore the example values, Copy results to paste them elsewhere, or Share to copy a link that preserves your inputs.
Is the result exact?
Calculations use standard formulas and double-precision arithmetic, then display about seven significant figures. Real-world measurements carry uncertainty, so treat results as estimates unless your inputs are exact.