get family position between 2 dom elements controlling javascript

i've implemented set draggable elements secluded containers controlling jquery. i need an animation moves an component specific enclosing but user interaction. problem elements dump containers totally different tools dom mostly positioned controlling float.

all i need formula comprehensive position inadequacy between 2 floating dom elements, preferrably controlling jquery. wholly thing i found hacks parsing upwards dom nonetheless always unequivocally browser-specific (e.g. "this does work good firefox ie whatever").

best something this:

var widen = getdistance(element1, element2);

or jquery notation:

var widen = $(element1).distanceto($(element2));