1 chain equals approximately 20.1168 metres.
To convert chains to metres, you multiply the number of chains by 20.1168. Because one chain equals exactly 20.1168 metres, this conversion factor helps easily change any chain measurement into metres, making it simple to work with metric units.
Conversion Tool
Result in metres:
Conversion Formula
The formula to convert chains to metres is: metres = chains * 20.1168. This works because one chain is exactly 20.1168 metres long, so multiplying the number of chains gives the total length in metres. For example, converting 2 chains: 2 * 20.1168 = 40.2336 metres.
Conversion Example
- Convert 0.5 chains:
- Half a chain is 0.5
- Multiply 0.5 by 20.1168
- 0.5 * 20.1168 = 10.0584 metres
- Convert 3 chains:
- Number of chains is 3
- Multiply 3 by 20.1168
- 3 * 20.1168 = 60.3504 metres
- Convert 1.75 chains:
- Number of chains is 1.75
- Multiply 1.75 by 20.1168
- 1.75 * 20.1168 = 35.1884 metres
Conversion Chart
| Chains | Metres |
|---|---|
| -24.0 | -482.8 |
| -20.0 | -402.3 |
| -15.0 | -301.7 |
| -10.0 | -201.2 |
| -5.0 | -100.6 |
| 0 | 0 |
| 5.0 | 100.6 |
| 10.0 | 201.2 |
| 15.0 | 301.7 |
| 20.0 | 402.3 |
| 25.0 | 502.9 |
| 26.0 | 522.3 |
This chart helps to see quickly how many metres correspond to specific chain values. Read the chain value on the first column, then find the matching metres in the second column.
Related Conversion Questions
- How many metres are in 1.5 chains?
- What is the length in metres of 2.75 chains?
- Can I convert 1 chain to yards?
- How do I convert chains to centimetres?
- What is 10 chains in metres?
- Is there a quick way to convert chains to kilometres?
- How long is 3.5 chains in metres?
Conversion Definitions
A chain is a traditional unit of length mainly used in land measurement, equal to 66 feet or 20.1168 metres, established for surveying purposes. It provides a practical measure for plotting and dividing land parcels, especially in agriculture and real estate contexts.
Metres are the basic unit of length in the metric system, defined as the distance light travels in a vacuum in 1/299,792,458 seconds. It is the standard measurement for distance worldwide, used in science, engineering, and everyday measurements.
Conversion FAQs
How precise is the conversion from chains to metres?
The conversion uses a fixed factor of 20.1168 metres per chain, which is exact since the chain length was standardized historically. The calculation is precise enough for surveying, construction, and mapping, with negligible error for most practical purposes.
What tools can I use to convert chains to metres automatically?
Besides this web-based converter, you can use calculator apps with custom formulas, spreadsheet functions like in Excel, or dedicated measurement conversion software that support units like chains and metres.
Why is the chain still used in some regions instead of metres?
In certain countries like the US and UK, land measurement traditions persist, and chains are still used in surveying because of historical practices. Converting to metres allows compatibility with international standards and modern mapping tools.
Can I convert a negative chain value to metres?
Yes, negative values simply indicate a measurement in the opposite direction or a conceptual subtraction, and multiplying by 20.1168 still applies. The sign indicates direction but does not affect the magnitude calculation.
