An "angstrom" (symbol: Å) is a unit of length that is commonly used in the field of nanotechnology, molecular biology, and atomic-scale physics and chemistry. It is named after the Swedish physicist Anders Jonas Ångström, who made significant contributions to the study of spectroscopy and the understanding of atomic and molecular structure.
One angstrom is equal to 0.1 nanometers (nm) or 1 × 10^-10 meters (m). In other words, it is a very small unit of length, often used to describe the size of atoms, molecules, and the wavelengths of electromagnetic radiation such as X-rays and gamma rays.
The angstrom is particularly useful when dealing with structures at the atomic and molecular scale, where measurements are often in the range of a few angstroms. For example, the diameter of a hydrogen atom is about 0.1 angstroms, and the bond length between two carbon atoms in a molecule like benzene is approximately 1.4 angstroms.
A "span" is a traditional unit of length used for measuring cloth or fabric. It was historically used in various countries, including England, and is based on the width of the human hand or the spread of the fingers. The actual length of a span could vary depending on the region and historical context.
In England, a span was typically equal to 9 inches or approximately 22.86 centimeters. However, it's important to note that the definition of a span could vary from place to place and over time.