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Ten Things You Maybe Didn't Know About the Long Hundredweight
1. It's 112 pounds
The Long Hundredweight is used primarily in the UK and is equal to 112 pounds. It’s different from the short hundredweight used in the United States, which is only 100 pounds. This means a long hundredweight is heavier by 12 pounds!
2. Originates from historical British weight systems
The Long Hundredweight has its roots in old British measurement systems. It was used in the UK for various goods, particularly in trade, like coal or wool. While not as commonly used today, it still pops up in some areas.
3. It’s part of the Imperial system
The Long Hundredweight is part of the Imperial system, which is mainly used in the UK and some other countries that still stick to older systems of measurement. It contrasts with the metric system, which is used in most other parts of the world.
4. Used in the sale of bulk commodities
Historically, goods like coal, grain, and other bulk commodities were sold by the Long Hundredweight. Farmers, traders, and markets would use it to measure out large quantities, making it a crucial unit for commerce.
5. It’s related to the Long Ton
The Long Hundredweight is closely related to the Long Ton, which is also used in the UK. The Long Ton consists of 20 Long Hundredweights, meaning it’s a unit used to measure even bigger weights.
6. Still used in certain industries
While the Long Hundredweight is largely a relic of the past, it still appears in some specific industries. For example, it might be used in agriculture or for shipping large amounts of goods within the UK.
7. Confusing compared to the short hundredweight
Because the US uses the short hundredweight (100 pounds), there can be confusion between the two when reading older British measurements or international trade documents. Always double-check if you're dealing with the long or short version!
8. Helps with larger-scale measurements
For very large shipments or heavy goods, the Long Hundredweight is perfect. It's a great way to keep track of larger amounts of bulk items while still offering a manageable number for merchants and buyers.
9. Not commonly used today
Though once widespread, the Long Hundredweight has fallen out of everyday use. It has largely been replaced by the metric system in most areas, although it’s still seen in certain industries and historical contexts.
10. A useful throwback in history
Even if it’s not a daily part of our lives anymore, the Long Hundredweight remains a useful piece of history for those who study trade and measurement systems of the past. It’s a fun way to think about how people once weighed things differently!