Convert Earth polar radius to rod Online | Free Length Converter

Earth Polar Radius

The Earth's polar radius is the distance from the center of the Earth to the North or South Pole. It measures the Earth’s radius along its rotational axis.

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  Its value is approximately 6,356.8 kilometers (about 3,949.9 miles).

  
  
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  The Earth is an oblate spheroid, so the polar radius is slightly shorter than the equatorial radius due to the planet's flattening at the poles.

  
  
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  This measurement is crucial for geodesy, understanding Earth’s shape, and satellite navigation.

  
  

Key facts:

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  Polar radius ≈ 6,356.8 km

  
  
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  Smaller than equatorial radius by about 21.3 km

  
  
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  Important for precise Earth modeling and mapping

  
  

The difference between the polar and equatorial radius reflects the Earth’s rotation and its effect on the planet’s shape.

Rod

A rod is a traditional unit of length used in land measurement and surveying. It is equal to 16.5 feet, 5.5 yards, or exactly 5.0292 meters.

Also known as a pole or perch, the rod dates back to medieval England and was commonly used for measuring land and agricultural plots. It is closely related to other units such as the chain (which is 4 rods) and the furlong (which is 40 rods).

Key conversions:

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  1 rod = 16.5 feet

  
  
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  1 rod = 5.5 yards

  
  
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  1 rod = 5.0292 meters

  
  
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  4 rods = 1 chain

  
  
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  40 rods = 1 furlong

  
  

Though largely replaced by metric units today, the rod is still occasionally used in surveying and legal descriptions of land, especially in the United States and the UK.