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Fathom

A fathom is a unit of length traditionally used to measure the depth of water. It equals 6 feet or approximately 1.8288 meters.

Originating from the Old English word fæðm, meaning "to embrace" or "outstretched arms," the fathom was based on the average distance between a person's outstretched arms. It has been widely used by sailors and navigators to estimate sea depths and underwater distances.

Key facts:

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  1 fathom = 6 feet

  
  
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  1 fathom ≈ 1.8288 meters

  
  
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  1 fathom = 2 yards

  
  

Though modern sonar and electronic instruments now measure depth more precisely, the fathom remains a traditional unit in nautical contexts, especially in maritime charts and historical references.

Ken

A ken is a traditional Japanese unit of length used mainly in architecture and construction. It measures the distance between two pillars in traditional Japanese buildings and is roughly equivalent to 6 Japanese feet (shaku) or about 1.82 meters (approximately 6 feet).

The ken was a standard module in Japanese design, influencing room sizes and proportions in temples, houses, and other structures. Its use helped maintain harmony and consistency in traditional building layouts.

Though largely replaced by the metric system today, the ken remains significant in studying traditional Japanese architecture and cultural heritage.

Summary:

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  1 ken ≈ 1.82 meters (6 feet)

  
  
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  Based on spacing between structural pillars

  
  
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  Used in traditional Japanese architecture

  
  
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  Important for historical and cultural studies