The Science of Love Compatibility
Name numerology, zodiac alignment, and relationship psychology — here's what goes into calculating love compatibility, and what the research actually says.
How the Love Calculator Works
Chemistry Score
Derived from the harmonic overlap of two names using character-value hashing. Ancient onomancy assigned numerical values to letters; when combined, these create a "third frequency" — the energetic signature of the pair. Weighted heavily for the "New Crush" intent (60%) and lightly for "Life Partner" (10%).
Communication Score
Measures the structural overlap of name patterns to estimate conversational flow. Research from the Gottman Institute shows that a couple's ability to resolve conflict is the strongest predictor of long-term success. This score is weighted equally for "Life Partner" intent (45%) alongside longevity.
Longevity Score
Evaluates the deep structural compatibility of two names — how well the underlying patterns sustain over time. This is the "slow burn" metric. For partnerships, it carries 45% of the total weight. For crushes, only 20% — because initial attraction and longevity are often inversely correlated.
Zodiac Compatibility Chart
Fire + Air = High Chemistry
Fire signs: Aries, Leo, Sagittarius
Air signs: Gemini, Libra, Aquarius
Air feeds fire. These pairings tend toward intense initial attraction, stimulating conversation, and a fast-moving connection. The risk is burnout — high energy doesn't always translate to lasting stability.
Air signs: Gemini, Libra, Aquarius
Air feeds fire. These pairings tend toward intense initial attraction, stimulating conversation, and a fast-moving connection. The risk is burnout — high energy doesn't always translate to lasting stability.
Earth + Water = High Longevity
Earth signs: Taurus, Virgo, Capricorn
Water signs: Cancer, Scorpio, Pisces
Water nourishes earth. These pairings build slowly but deeply, prioritizing emotional security and shared routines. They score highest on longevity and communication but may lack the initial "spark" of fire-air pairs.
Water signs: Cancer, Scorpio, Pisces
Water nourishes earth. These pairings build slowly but deeply, prioritizing emotional security and shared routines. They score highest on longevity and communication but may lack the initial "spark" of fire-air pairs.
Same Element = Natural Understanding
Two fire signs understand each other's drive. Two earth signs share practical goals. Same-element pairings score well on communication because they process the world similarly — but they can also amplify each other's weaknesses.
Opposing Elements = Growth Potential
Fire-water and earth-air pairings require the most conscious effort. They bring what the other lacks — passion meets depth, structure meets spontaneity. Our calculator scores these lower by default but with the understanding that these relationships often produce the most personal growth.
What Relationship Science Actually Says
The Gottman Ratio
Dr. John Gottman's research at the University of Washington found that stable relationships maintain a 5:1 ratio of positive to negative interactions. It's not the absence of conflict that matters — it's whether positive moments outweigh the friction. Our "Communication" score is a nod to this principle.
Attachment Theory
Psychologists identify three core attachment styles: secure, anxious, and avoidant. A secure-secure pairing has the highest satisfaction rates. Anxious-avoidant is the most volatile. While our calculator can't assess attachment style directly, the "Longevity" dimension attempts to capture the structural stability that secure attachment provides.
The Role of Similarity
Research published in the Journal of Personality and Social Psychology consistently shows that similarity in values, humor, and life goals is a stronger predictor of relationship satisfaction than complementarity. "Opposites attract" makes good fiction but poor statistics.
Names and First Impressions
Studies in sociolinguistics show that names carry implicit associations — perceived warmth, competence, and social class. While this doesn't mean your name determines your love life, it does mean the "name effect" in our algorithm touches something real about how people form initial impressions of compatibility.
Love Calculator FAQ
? How do love calculators work?
Most love calculators use name algorithms (Pythagorean or Chaldean numerology) to find a numerical match. Our 2026 version adds Zodiac weights and relationship intent to provide a more nuanced 3-part breakdown of chemistry, communication, and longevity.
? Can a love calculator predict a breakup?
Absolutely not. A calculator measures current alignment and potential. Real relationships are built through consistent action, choice, and shared growth. Use this as a fun guide, not a final verdict!
? Why did my score change when I added my Zodiac sign?
Zodiac signs provide a cultural modifier. Some signs naturally align better in astrological theory, which either amplifies or softens the harmonic resonance found in your names.
? Is the love calculator accurate?
This is an entertainment tool, not a scientific instrument. The algorithm produces consistent results for the same inputs and uses name numerology and zodiac theory, but real compatibility depends on communication, shared values, and mutual effort.
? What do the chemistry, communication, and longevity scores mean?
Chemistry measures initial attraction and spark. Communication measures the ability to resolve conflict and maintain dialogue. Longevity measures long-term structural compatibility. The weighting of these three scores changes based on your selected relationship intent (New Crush, Life Partner, or Just for Fun).