What Is This Tool?
This converter transforms measurements from the atomic unit of length, based on the Bohr radius, into the US survey fathom, a unit commonly used in nautical and hydrographic fields. It bridges the gap between atomic-scale physics and maritime measurement systems.
How to Use This Tool?
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Enter the length value in atomic units of length (a.u., b)
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Select the source unit as a.u. of length
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Choose the target unit as fathom (US survey)
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Click convert to get the equivalent length in fathoms
Key Features
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Converts atomic units of length (a.u., b) to US survey fathoms (fath)
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Supports integration of atomic-scale and nautical length data
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Browser-based and easy to use for scientific and maritime applications
Examples
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10 a.u. of length converts to approximately 2.8935705962681e-10 fathoms (US survey)
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100 a.u. of length converts to approximately 2.8935705962681e-9 fathoms (US survey)
Common Use Cases
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Reporting electron orbital sizes in atomic and molecular physics
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Recording water depths and line lengths on historical nautical charts
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Reconciling legacy hydrographic survey data using US survey units with modern measurements
Tips & Best Practices
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Use the tool for theoretical or data integration purposes rather than direct physical measurements
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Be aware of small decimal values due to the large difference in unit scales
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Consider unit standardization when working with modern surveying data
Limitations
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Conversions often produce very small decimal values, making direct comparisons impractical
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US survey fathom slightly differs from the international fathom; check for standardization needs
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Primarily intended for specialized or theoretical conversions, not routine measurements
Frequently Asked Questions
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What is the atomic unit of length (a.u., b)?
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It is the Bohr radius, the characteristic atomic scale length, approximately equal to the mean distance between electron and proton in a hydrogen atom.
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Where is the US survey fathom used?
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It is used in nautical and hydrographic contexts such as measuring water depths, anchor cables, and mooring lines in maritime operations.
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Why convert a.u. length to fathoms (US survey)?
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To connect atomic-scale measurements with legacy maritime data and help integrate scientific measurements with nautical units.
Key Terminology
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A.u. of length [a.u., b]
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An atomic length unit based on the Bohr radius, used to measure atomic-scale distances.
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Fathom (US survey) [fath]
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A non-SI maritime length unit equal to 6 US survey feet, primarily used in nautical and hydrographic contexts.
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Bohr radius
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The characteristic length scale in atomic physics representing the average electron–proton separation in hydrogen’s ground state.