When we talk about distances or heights, 100 feet may seem abstract and hard to visualize. However, there are plenty of objects and structures that can help us better understand what 100 feet really looks like. Whether you’re measuring length or height, understanding this distance can help provide a clearer perspective. From animals to airplanes, here are 13 common things that are 100 feet long or tall.
How to Measure 100 Feet by Walking
Measuring 100 feet can seem challenging if you don’t have a tape measure or ruler handy. However, there’s a simple and practical way to estimate this distance by walking.
Step Length Calculation
The average human step length ranges from 2.5 to 3 feet. This may vary depending on your height and stride. To measure your step length, take a few steps naturally, measure the distance between the heel of one foot to the heel of the other foot, and calculate the average.
Counting Steps
Once you know your average step length, you can easily estimate 100 feet. For example, if your step is 2.5 feet, you would need about 40 steps to cover 100 feet. If it’s closer to 3 feet, around 33 to 34 steps will be needed.
1. A Blue Whale
The blue whale (Balaenoptera musculus) is the largest animal ever to have existed on Earth, reaching lengths of up to 100 feet. This majestic marine mammal has a streamlined body and can weigh as much as 200 tons. Its size is staggering when compared to most other creatures.
Fascinating Facts
- Blue whales can consume up to 6 tons of krill daily.
- Despite their enormous size, they mainly feed on tiny marine organisms called krill.
- The length of a blue whale can be compared to the length of a basketball court, but they weigh thousands of times more.
2. Two Megalodons
The megalodon was one of the largest predatory sharks to have ever lived. Although these creatures are extinct, fossil records suggest that they could have reached lengths of between 50 to 67 feet.
Visualizing Two Megalodons
- If you line up two megalodons side by side, their combined length would be nearly 100 feet.
- These giant sharks were apex predators, preying on whales and other large sea creatures during their time.
3. A 10-Story Building
In urban environments, you might encounter buildings that are approximately 100 feet tall. A 10-story building typically measures around 100 feet, depending on the height of each floor.
Common Characteristics of a 10-Story Building
- These buildings often house offices, apartments, or hotels.
- They can be classified as mid-rise buildings, and while not towering skyscrapers, they still dominate the skyline in many cities.
4. Two Shipping Containers
Shipping containers are used for transporting goods across seas, railways, and highways. One standard shipping container measures 50 feet in length. Therefore, if you stack two containers end to end, you get a combined total of 100 feet.
Practical Use
- Shipping containers hold massive amounts of cargo and play a significant role in international trade.
- They are typically made of steel to withstand harsh transportation conditions.
5. A Football Field (Without End Zones)
In American football, the length of a football field (from one 20-yard line to the other) measures exactly 100 feet. This measurement excludes the end zones, which are essential in determining the full size of a football field.
Football Field Dimensions
- The entire length of a football field is 120 yards, including the end zones.
- This gives you a practical visual of how large 100 feet is when watching or playing the game.
Read this blog: 13 Things That Are About 5 Meters (m) Long
6. Half a Hockey Rink
A hockey rink used in competitive games is officially 200 feet long. However, if you imagine half the length of the rink, you will have a good representation of 100 feet.
Measuring with a Hockey Rink
- This space is often used for practices or to visualize the distance players must cover during a game.
- The width of the rink is typically 85 feet, further emphasizing the scale of a hockey game.
7. Boeing 737 Aircraft
The Boeing 737 is one of the most widely used commercial airplanes. Depending on the model, the 737 can be around 100 feet long, making it an excellent example of this measurement.
Key Features of the Boeing 737
- The 737 is used primarily for short- and medium-haul flights.
- It’s a narrow-body airliner known for its efficiency in transporting passengers and cargo.
8. Three Volleyball Nets
A volleyball net typically measures 32 feet long for indoor play. If you imagine setting up three volleyball nets end-to-end, you will have a total of 96 feet, which is very close to 100 feet.
Net Sizes and Setups
- Beach volleyball nets are slightly shorter at 28 feet long.
- A backyard volleyball set can be even smaller but still provides a fun and accessible way to measure this length.
9. Five Rolls-Royce Phantoms
A Rolls-Royce Phantom measures approximately 19 feet in length. When you line up five Phantoms bumper to bumper, you’ll get a combined length of about 95 feet, which is very close to 100 feet.
Luxury and Size
- The Phantom VIII model is even longer at 20 feet.
- These luxury cars offer an opulent driving experience with a sleek design and powerful engine.
10. Standard Extension Cord
Extension cords come in a range of lengths, with one of the most common sizes being 100 feet. These cords provide extra reach for powering devices that are far from electrical outlets.
Benefits of Long Extension Cords
- A 100-foot extension cord allows you to power tools, lighting, and electronics without being limited by short cables.
- Extension cords are particularly useful for outdoor activities and in large workspaces.
Read this blog: 8 Things That Are About 26 Feet (ft) Long
11. Two Cyprus Trees
Cyprus trees are tall and narrow trees often found in Mediterranean regions. On average, each tree reaches about 50 feet tall. When placed side by side, the combined height is approximately 100 feet.
Features of Cyprus Trees
- These trees are known for their dense, evergreen foliage.
- They are commonly used in landscaping and as ornamental trees.
12. Three School Buses
The typical school bus measures about 30 to 35 feet in length. If you line up three school buses, the total length will be close to 100 feet.
The Familiar Image of School Buses
- School buses are iconic and easy to visualize, making them a great reference for estimating 100 feet.
- The average school bus can carry about 40-50 students, emphasizing its practical size.
13. Power Transmission Towers
Power transmission towers are tall metal structures that carry electricity over long distances. These towers can often be found in rural areas and are usually around 100 feet tall.
Important Role in Energy Distribution
- These towers support high-voltage lines and are essential in maintaining electrical grids.
- Their height ensures that the power lines are safely above the ground.
Conclusion
The scale of 100 feet through real-life examples, such as blue whales, school buses, and power transmission towers, makes this measurement easier to visualize. Whether it’s the length of a football field or the height of a 10-story building, these comparisons offer a tangible way to grasp what 100 feet looks like. Ultimately, these common objects and structures provide a useful frame of reference for everyday measurements.
