How many feet are there in 1 fathom?

In nautical terms, a fathom is a unit of measurement used primarily in maritime contexts to measure the depth of water. One fathom is equivalent to 6 feet. This measurement is historically tied to the arm span of an adult male, which averaged around 6 feet, making fathoms a practical way to gauge water depth for sailors.

Understanding this measurement is crucial for navigation, fishing, and ensuring safe passage. Knowledge of fathoms allows mariners to communicate effectively about depths and understand charts and sonar readings without confusion. The other options, though, do not represent the correct conversion for a fathom; they illustrate common feet measurements but do not match the standard nautical definition.