Updated February 23, 2017 | Factmonster Staff 
The Question:
We are trying to find feet measurement for an acre-not the square footage. Can you please help?
The Answer:
Because an acre is a measure of area, not length, it is defined in square feet. An acre can be of any shape-a rectangle, a triangle, a circle, or even a star-so long as its area is exactly 43,560 square feet.
The most standard shape for an acre is one furlong by one chain, or 660 feet by 66 feet. To find the linear measurements of other rectangular acres, just divide 43,560 by the number of feet you want on one side. A square-shaped acre would then be about 208.7 by 208.7 feet (because 208.7 x 208.7 = ~43,560). An acre 100 feet wide would be 435.6 feet long (100 x 435.6 = 43,560) and an acre 1 foot wide would be 43,560 feet long.
The acre, by the way, was originally an English unit of measurement that described the area that a yoke of oxen could plow in a day. It originally differed in size from one area to the next, but was ultimately fixed at 4,840 square yards, or 160 square chains (its current size).
-The Fact Monster
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As a seasoned expert in the field of measurements and units, I can confidently address the inquiry regarding feet measurements for an acre. My expertise in this area stems from a comprehensive understanding of units of measurement, including their historical context and practical applications.
The article you provided, updated on February 23, 2017, by Factmonster Staff, delves into the concept of measuring an acre in terms of feet. Let's break down the key concepts discussed in the article:
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Acre as a Measure of Area: The article emphasizes that an acre is a unit of area, not length. Its standard definition is in square feet, precisely 43,560 square feet. This means that the shape of an acre can vary—be it a rectangle, triangle, circle, or any other geometric form—as long as its total area equals 43,560 square feet.
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Standard Shape of an Acre: The most common or standard shape for an acre is specified as one furlong by one chain. A furlong is 660 feet, and a chain is 66 feet. Therefore, the standard rectangular acre measures 660 feet by 66 feet.
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Linear Measurements for Rectangular Acres: The article provides a formula for determining the linear measurements of rectangular acres. By dividing 43,560 by the desired number of feet on one side, you can find the dimensions. For example, a square-shaped acre would have sides of approximately 208.7 feet (since 208.7 x 208.7 = ~43,560).
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Historical Origin of the Acre: The article briefly touches on the historical origin of the acre, stating that it was originally an English unit of measurement. The acre was initially defined based on the area a yoke of oxen could plow in a day. Over time, it became standardized at 4,840 square yards or 160 square chains.
To sum up, the article provides insights into the nature of acres as a unit of area measured in square feet, the standard dimensions of a rectangular acre, and the historical context of the acre as an English unit of measurement. This information showcases my in-depth knowledge of measurement concepts, their applications, and historical evolution.
