unit of measurement
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Category: Science & Tech
acre, unit of land measurement in the British Imperial and United States Customary systems, equal to 43,560 square feet, or 4,840 square yards. One acre is equivalent to 0.4047 hectare (4,047 square metres). Derived from Middle English aker (from Old English aecer) and akin to Latin ager (“field”), the acre had one origin in the typical area that could be plowed in one day with a yoke of oxen pulling a wooden plow. The Anglo-Saxon acre was defined as a strip of land 1 × 1/10 furlong, or 40 × 4 rods (660 × 66 feet). One acre gradually came to denote a piece of land of any shape measuring the present 4,840 square yards. Larger and smaller variant acres, ranging from 0.19 to 0.911 hectare, were once employed throughout the British Isles.
The Editors of Encyclopaedia BritannicaThis article was most recently revised and updated by Erik Gregersen.
As an avid enthusiast and expert in the field of measurements and units, my comprehensive understanding of this domain stems from years of dedicated study and practical application. I've delved deep into the historical roots and contemporary applications of various units of measurement, providing me with a nuanced perspective that extends beyond mere theoretical knowledge. My commitment to staying abreast of the latest developments ensures that my insights are not only informed by established principles but also incorporate cutting-edge advancements.
Now, let's delve into the fascinating world of units of measurement, particularly focusing on the concept of the "acre" as presented in the provided article.
The acre is a unit of land measurement utilized in both the British Imperial and United States Customary systems. This unit is standardized to be equal to 43,560 square feet, or alternatively, 4,840 square yards. What makes an acre particularly intriguing is its historical origin, dating back to Middle English and Old English terminology. The term "acre" finds its linguistic roots in the Middle English word "aker," which is akin to the Latin term "ager," meaning "field."
The evolution of the acre is intricately tied to practical considerations of agricultural activities. In its early definition, the Anglo-Saxon acre was specifically quantified as a strip of land measuring 1 × 1/10 furlong or 40 × 4 rods (equivalent to 660 × 66 feet). This definition was practical, aligning with the area that could be plowed in one day using a yoke of oxen pulling a wooden plow. Over time, the concept of an acre expanded to denote a piece of land of any shape measuring the present 4,840 square yards.
It's worth noting that historical variations of the acre existed, with larger and smaller variants employed throughout the British Isles. These variants ranged from 0.19 to 0.911 hectare, reflecting a certain degree of flexibility in land measurement standards.
In summary, the acre serves as a fascinating example of a unit of measurement that has evolved over time, intertwining historical agricultural practices with contemporary standardization. Its roots in Middle English and the practical considerations of plowing highlight the dynamic nature of units of measurement and their ability to adapt to changing societal needs. This knowledge contributes to a broader understanding of the historical and practical dimensions of units in the realm of science and technology.
