How long is 5 inches? This is a common question that comes to mind when we need to measure random things. This question can become daunting if we cannot find a measuring tape or ruler in time. So what should we do in this situation? The answer is simple: you can use common items around you. All you need to do is pick any random thing that you think might be about 5 inches long. In this article, we will discuss some basic items that are 5 inches long and can be suitable substitutes for measuring tapes and rulers.
What do you mean by five inches long?
5 Inches is precisely equal to 12.7 centimeters or 127 millimeters or 0.4 feet. This measurement is commonly used for a variety of everyday objects and tools.
How Long is 5 Inches in Centimeters?
1 inch = 2.54 centimeters to convert inches to centimeters.
Five (5) inches is equal to 5 × 2.54 = 12.7 centimeters.
12 Things Equal to 5 Inches
- 2.5 Pink Erasers
- Router Antenna
- 2 Tennis Balls
- Half of the Chopsticks
- Bookmark
- Hair Comb
- Paper Clips
- US Dollar
- Nail File
- 3 Table Tennis Balls
- Standard Soda Can
- Pill Organizer
2.5 Pink Erasers
A typical pink eraser is about 2 inches long. Using two and a half of these erasers gives you a combined length of 5 inches. This method is especially useful for quick measurements during office or school work.
Router Antenna
The antennas on home and office routers are often around 5 inches long. These antennas are designed to enhance Wi-Fi connectivity and signal strength, making them a practical reference for measuring lengths in a tech-savvy environment.
2 Tennis Balls
Each tennis ball measures about 2.6 to 2.7 inches in diameter. Stacking two of them together approximates a length of 5 inches, offering a playful yet practical measuring tool when traditional instruments aren’t available.
Half of the Chopsticks
Chopsticks are usually about 9 to 10 inches long when combined. Each half measures approximately 5 inches, making them a practical tool for gauging small or fragile pieces of food with precision.
Bookmark
Typically around 5 inches long, bookmarks are practical tools for keeping track of your place in a book. They are usually made from materials like paper, leather, or fabric, making them easy to use and carry around.
Hair Comb
A standard hair comb typically measures about 5 inches long. It’s a useful tool for maintaining hair, and its compact size makes it convenient to carry in bags or pockets.
Paper Clips
Standard paper clips are around 1 inch long. Lining up five paper clips end-to-end results in a total length of 5 inches. This simple technique is handy for measuring items around the classroom or office.
US Dollar
While a US dollar bill isn’t exactly 5 inches long, it measures about 6.14 inches in length. By strategically using two dollar notes, you can align closely with the 5-inch mark, offering a handy way to measure items when a ruler isn’t available. This method demonstrates the versatility of everyday items beyond their usual applications.
Nail File
A nail file, often about 5 inches long, is a grooming essential for maintaining well-shaped nails. Its compact size makes it easy to carry in a purse or travel bag, ensuring you’re always prepared for quick touch-ups.
3 Table Tennis Balls
Each table tennis ball measures about 1.5 to 1.6 inches in diameter. Lining up three of these balls will give you a total length of close to 5 inches. This practical method provides a quick reference for visualizing 5-inch objects without a ruler.
Standard Soda Can
In North America, a standard soda can measures about 4.83 inches in length, just shy of the 5-inch mark. This precise measurement provides a handy reference for comparing the sizes of small objects.
Pill Organizer
A 5-day pill organizer is typically about 5 inches long, with each slot measuring around 1 inch. This tool is essential for managing daily medication, particularly for older adults who might need help remembering their doses.
Random Things that are 5 Inches Long
Index Card: A 5×3 inch card often used for note-taking and organizing information.
Smartphone: Many models have a screen size of around 5 inches, making them compact and portable.
Subway Sandwich: A 5-inch sandwich is a smaller version of the typical 12-inch sub, perfect for a light meal.
USB Flash Drive: Some larger USB drives, including the casing, measure about 5 inches in length.
Ballpoint Pen: Standard pens are often around 5 inches long, fitting comfortably in a hand or pocket.
Utility Knife: A common size for utility knives, used for cutting various materials in DIY projects.
Chef’s Paring Knife: A small kitchen knife with a blade around 5 inches, ideal for precision cutting tasks.
Toothbrush: Many toothbrushes are about 5 inches long, designed for easy handling and effective cleaning.
TV Remote Control: Some compact remote controls measure approximately 5 inches in length, easy to use and store.
Small Paintbrush: A brush with a handle around 5 inches long, used for detailed painting work in arts and crafts.
Pocket Knife: A compact folding knife with a blade or overall length of around 5 inches, ideal for everyday carry.
Keychain Flashlight: A small flashlight with a length of about 5 inches, convenient for carrying in a pocket or on a keychain.
Travel-Sized Lotion Bottle: A small bottle of lotion or hand sanitizer that typically measures around 5 inches, perfect for on-the-go use.
Ruler: A mini ruler or measuring tool often around 5 inches long, useful for small-scale measurements.
Earbuds Case: A compact case designed to hold and protect earbuds, usually around 5 inches in length.
Measurement of 5 Inches at Home
- Width of an adult hand across the knuckles
- Standard index card (3×5 inches)
- Standard kitchen spoon
- Small kitchen knife blade
Measurement of 5 inches while traveling
- Smartphone
- Credit card
- U.S. dollar bill
Final Thoughts
Measuring 5 inches is convenient for comparing everyday objects. This length is commonly found in items used for practical, everyday purposes. Using familiar objects can help visualize and estimate measurements easily.
