Convert Electron radius (classical) to handbreadth Online | Free Length Converter
Classical Electron Radius
The classical electron radius is a theoretical length scale associated with the electron, derived from classical electromagnetism. It represents the size of a hypothetical sphere where the electron’s electrostatic energy equals its rest mass energy.
Its value is approximately 2.818 × 10⁻¹⁵ meters (about 2.8 femtometers).
Calculated using fundamental constants: the electron charge, mass, and the speed of light.
It is not the actual physical size of the electron (which is considered point-like in quantum mechanics), but a useful scale in classical physics.
Used in scattering theory and classical electron models.
Key facts:
Classical electron radius ≈ 2.818 × 10⁻¹⁵ m
Represents an electromagnetic length scale, not a physical size
Important in classical models of electron behavior
This radius helps bridge classical and quantum views of particle physics.
Handbreadth
A handbreadth is a traditional unit of length based on the width of a human hand, typically measured from the tip of the thumb to the tip of the little finger when the hand is fully extended. It was commonly used in ancient and medieval times for everyday measurements.
The handbreadth is generally about 3 to 4 inches (approximately 7.5 to 10 centimeters), though the exact length could vary by culture and era.
It served as a practical, easy-to-use measure in tailoring, construction, and daily life before standardized units were established.
The handbreadth is one of several body-based units, like the span and palm, reflecting how humans used their own bodies for measuring.
Summary:
About 3 to 4 inches (7.5 to 10 cm)
Based on the width of an extended hand
Used historically in various cultures
Practical for informal, everyday measurement
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