Are: A Metric Unit of Area

An in-depth look at the 'Are,' a metric unit of area equal to 100 square meters and often used in conjunction with the hectare.

An Are is a metric unit of area used in the measurement of land and property. It is defined as 100 square meters. Although not as commonly used as some other units, such as hectares or acres, the are is particularly relevant in real estate and agriculture.

Definition

The are is part of the metric system and is equal to:

$$ 1 \, \text{Are} = 100 \, \text{m}^2 $$

History and Context

The are was introduced in France in the late 18th century during the French Revolution as part of the metric system. It was intended to standardize measurements and replace a variety of regional units. Although its use has declined in favor of the hectare, the are remains an important unit in some countries and contexts.

Usage

The are is typically used in conjunction with the hectare:

$$ 1 \, \text{Hectare} = 100 \, \text{Ares} $$

In practice, the are is most commonly associated with smaller plots of land, while the hectare is used for larger land areas such as farms and forests. For example, in less urbanized areas or regions where traditional measurements are still prevalent, real estate properties might be listed in ares.

Examples

1. A residential plot might be described as “20 ares,” which is equivalent to 2000 square meters.
2. Agricultural land might be measured in hectares, with a single hectare comprising 100 ares.

Special Considerations

While the are is defined as 100 square meters, its usage can be nebulous in areas that commonly use the hectare or other units of area. Knowing the conversion factors between different units of area is crucial for accurate measurement and assessment.

Related Terms and Comparisons

• Hectare (\(\text{ha}\)): Equal to 10,000 square meters or 100 ares.
• Acre: A unit of area commonly used in the United States and the United Kingdom, equal to 4,840 square yards or 4,047 square meters.
• Square Meter (\(\text{m}^2\)): The base unit of area in the metric system.

FAQs

What is the purpose of the are?

The are is primarily used for measuring small plots of land. It simplifies the expression of land area in contexts where smaller divisions are more practical than using hectares or larger units.

How does an are compare to other units of measurement?

An are is equal to 100 square meters. It is a more granular unit of measure compared to a hectare (10,000 square meters) and larger than a square meter.

Is the are still widely used today?

While its usage has declined, the are is still relevant in some regions and contexts, particularly in real estate listings and smaller-scale agricultural plots.

Can ares and hectares be used interchangeably?

In terms of conversion, yes — 1 hectare is equal to 100 ares. However, ares are more practical for smaller areas, while hectares are reserved for larger land parcels.

Summary

The are, representing 100 square meters, is an essential metric unit of area, especially useful in conjunction with the hectare. Though its usage has declined, it remains crucial for specific applications in real estate and agriculture. Understanding how to convert and utilize this unit can be beneficial for precise land measurement and assessment.

References

1. National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST). (2020). Special Publication 811: Guide for the Use of the International System of Units (SI).
2. The International System of Units (SI) Brochure, 9th edition (2019).
3. Encyclopaedia Britannica. “Are.” Accessed August 15, 2024.