Cubic Foot (ft³)

Definition

A cubic foot (ft³) is a unit of volume in the imperial and U.S. customary systems. It is defined as the volume of a cube with edges that are each one foot long. Its exact canonical definition is 0.0283168466 cubic meters.

History

The cubic foot has its origins in the medieval period, where it was used for trade and commerce in Europe. The adoption of standardized measurement systems in the 19th century solidified its use. The U.S. customary system was largely influenced by British imperial measurements.

Uses

Cubic feet are commonly used in various fields, including construction, shipping, and refrigeration. It is a standard measurement for determining the volume of materials, storage spaces, and appliances in the U.S. and the UK.

Conversions

  • 1 cubic foot = 7.48052 gallons (U.S.)
  • 1 cubic foot = 0.0283168466 cubic meters (exact)
  • 1 cubic foot = 1728 cubic inches (exact)

Fun Facts

  • A common misconception is that the cubic foot is used globally, while many countries utilize the metric system.
  • In real estate, cubic footage can help determine the volume of a space, influencing pricing and usability.
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