10 Things That are 20 Inches Long/Big

20 inches is a surprisingly common and versatile dimension in a world filled with measurements. From everyday items to natural wonders, this specific length plays a significant role in our lives. Let’s explore various objects that are close to 20 inches and see how this dimension shapes our surroundings in unexpected ways.

Additionally, 20 inches can serve as a useful reference for activities like measuring hair length or choosing the right size for furniture and accessories. By grasping this dimension, you can enhance your understanding of everyday measurements and their impact on your surroundings.

Introduction: The Significance of 20 Inches

Before we dive into specific objects, let’s appreciate the significance of the 20-inch measurement. Equivalent to about 50.8 centimeters, this length occupies a sweet spot in human-scale dimensions—large enough to be substantial yet manageable in many contexts.

A Brief History of Measurement Systems

Measurements have been crucial to human civilization since ancient times. The inch, derived from the width of a human thumb, has been used for centuries. Standardizing measurements, including the inch, played a vital role in trade, construction, and scientific advancement.

Fun fact: The word “inch” comes from the Latin “uncia,” meaning one-twelfth, as it was originally defined as one-twelfth of a foot.

Why 20 Inches Matters in Our Daily Lives

The 20-inch dimension often represents a balance between functionality and practicality. It’s a size that fits comfortably within human reach and vision, making it ideal for various everyday items. From the screens we use to the luggage we carry, 20 inches frequently emerges as an optimal size for user interaction and efficiency.

How Long is 20 inches Hair?

20 inches of hair is a striking length that typically falls around the middle of your back. For most people, it reaches from just below the shoulders to about the waist. To visualize it, think of it as extending down to the area just above your beltline or the small of your back.

If you were to stand straight, the tips of your hair would likely brush against your clothing or rest just above the waistband of your pants. This length is perfect for styles like long layers or soft waves, creating a beautiful, flowing effect that enhances your overall look!

How Big is 20 Inches?

20 inches is a length that measures approximately 50.8 centimeters. It is slightly longer than a standard ruler and can be visualized as about the size of a large dinner plate or a little less than two-thirds of the circumference of a basketball.

Visualizing 20 Inches: More Than Just a Number

To truly appreciate the 20-inch dimension, it helps to visualize it in relation to familiar objects and our own bodies.

Comparing to Common Body Parts

For most adults, 20 inches is roughly equivalent to:

• The length of an average adult’s forearm from elbow to wrist
• The stride length of a typical adult walking at a moderate pace
• Approximately the circumference of an average adult’s head (which is usually around 22 inches)

Unexpected 20-Inch Measurements in Nature

Nature provides some surprising examples close to 20 inches:

• The wingspan of a red-tailed hawk, which can range from 18 to 25 inches
• The length of a medium-sized iguana, such as the green iguana, which often grows over 20 inches
• The diameter of certain branches of giant sequoia trees

10 Surprising Objects Measuring Close to 20 Inches

Now, let’s explore ten diverse objects that exemplify the versatility of the 20-inch dimension.

1. The Green Iguana: Nature’s 20-Inch Wonder

Green iguanas can reach lengths of 20 inches or more, showcasing the adaptability of this reptile.

Habitat and characteristics:

• Native to Central and South America
• Herbivorous, with a distinctive dewlap under the chin
• Can grow up to 6 feet in length, including the tail

Significance of their size:

• Aids in efficient basking and heat regulation
• Provides defense against predators
• Enables access to various food sources in trees

Examples of other reptiles approaching 20 inches:

• Bearded Dragon: Some larger specimens can reach close to 20 inches
• Blue-Tongued Skink: Can grow up to 20 inches in length
• Ball Python: Typically reaches lengths of 3-5 feet as adults

2. Standard Carry-On Luggage: Travel’s Magic Number

Many airlines specify maximum dimensions of 22 x 14 x 9 inches for carry-on luggage, with the longest side often around 20 inches. This size strikes a balance between passenger convenience and aircraft storage limitations.

Airlines’ size restrictions:

Airline	Maximum Carry-On Dimensions
American Airlines	22″ x 14″ x 9″
Delta Air Lines	22″ x 14″ x 9″
United Airlines	22″ x 14″ x 9″
Southwest Airlines	24″ x 16″ x 10″

Packing tips for maximizing 20-inch luggage space:

1. Use packing cubes to organize clothes
2. Roll soft items like t-shirts and underwear
3. Wear your bulkiest items during travel
4. Utilize every pocket and compartment
5. Consider vacuum-sealed bags for extra compression

3. High-End Gaming Laptops: Power in a Compact Package

While mainstream gaming laptops don’t typically have 20-inch screens, many high-end models feature displays that approach this size, generally ranging from 15 to 17 inches.

Evolution of gaming laptop sizes:

• Early 2000s: 15-17 inch screens were standard
• Mid-2010s: 18-inch models gained popularity
• Present day: 17-inch models push the boundaries of portable gaming

Pros and cons of larger gaming laptops:

Pros:

• Immersive gaming experience
• Ample screen space for multitasking
• Often feature high-refresh-rate displays

Cons:

• Reduced portability compared to smaller laptops
• Higher power consumption
• Premium price point

Examples of large gaming laptops:

• Alienware Area-51m: Features a 17.3-inch display
• MSI GT76 Titan: Offers a 17.3-inch screen with high refresh rates
• ASUS ROG Zephyrus S17: Provides a 17.3-inch display in a relatively thin chassis

4. Standard Letter-Sized Paper: The Office Staple

While a single sheet of letter-sized paper isn’t 20 inches, two sheets placed end-to-end measure almost exactly 22 inches. This paper size is common in the United States.

Letter paper dimensions:

• Single sheet: 8.5 x 11 inches
• Two sheets end-to-end: 22 inches

Uses in business and education:

• Official documents and reports
• School assignments and handouts
• Printing and copying for everyday use

Fun fact: Many countries use A4 paper (210 x 297 mm) as their standard, while the U.S. primarily uses letter-sized paper.

5. Computer Monitors: The 20-Inch Option

Though not as common as they once were, 20-inch displays still exist, offering a balance between screen space and desk efficiency.

Monitor specifications:

• Diagonal measurement: 20 inches
• Common resolutions: 1600×900 or 1920×1080 (Full HD)
• Aspect ratio: 16:9 or 16:10

Benefits of 20-inch monitors:

• Comfortable viewing distance for most users
• Suitable for productivity tasks and casual use
• Often more affordable than larger sizes

Examples of 20-inch monitor models:

• Dell P2019H: Professional-grade IPS display
• Acer V206HQL: Budget-friendly option for basic computing needs
• HP ProDisplay P203: Business-oriented monitor with energy-efficient features

6. Medium-Sized Suitcase: The Traveler’s Companion

Many medium-sized suitcases, including some carry-on models, feature a height or length close to 20 inches. This size is popular for short trips or as a checked bag for longer journeys.

Typical dimensions:

• Height: 20-22 inches
• Width: 14-16 inches
• Depth: 9-10 inches

Suitcase capacity:

• 35-45 liters
• Suitable for 3-5 day trips

Travel tips for 20-inch suitcases:

1. Use packing cubes for organization
2. Roll clothes to maximize space
3. Wear bulky items during travel
4. Consider expandable models for extra capacity

7. Professional Chef’s Knife: The Kitchen Workhorse

While most chef’s knives are shorter, some professional models feature blades that approach 20 inches, designed for specific tasks in commercial kitchens.

Uses for long chef’s knives:

• Slicing large cuts of meat
• Preparing oversized vegetables
• Filleting large fish

Knife care tips:

1. Hand wash and dry immediately after use
2. Store in a knife block or magnetic strip
3. Sharpen regularly with a whetstone
4. Use a honing steel to maintain the edge

Examples of long chef’s knives:

• Wüsthof Classic 14-inch Carving Knife
• Mercer Culinary Millennia 18-inch Slicing Knife
• Victorinox 12-inch Slicing Knife

8. Tall Table Lamps: Illuminating Your Space

Many tall table lamps measure around 20 inches in height, providing ample illumination for reading, working, or creating ambiance in a room.

Components of a 20-inch table lamp:

• Base: 4-6 inches
• Lamp body: 10-12 inches
• Shade: 4-6 inches

Lighting considerations:

• Choose the right bulb wattage for your needs
• Consider adjustable necks for directional lighting
• Look for USB ports in the base for added functionality

Popular 20-inch lamp styles:

• Industrial-inspired pipe lamps
• Minimalist ceramic lamps
• Art deco-inspired metal lamps

9. Large Pizza Diameter: The Party Pleaser

A 20-inch pizza is often the largest size offered by pizzerias, perfect for feeding a crowd. This impressive diameter results in a pizza with a surface area of about 314 square inches!

How many slices in a 20-inch pizza?

• Typically cut into 8-16 slices, depending on the pizzeria and style
• Each slice size can vary significantly based on the number of cuts

Calorie counts and serving suggestions:

• A plain cheese 20-inch pizza contains roughly 3,000-3,500 calories
• Serves 8-10 people as a main course
• Pair with a large salad and consider vegetable toppings for balance

Fun pizza facts:

• The world’s largest pizza had a diameter of 122 feet and 8 inches
• New York-style pizzas are often sold in 18-inch or 20-inch sizes
• Chicago deep-dish pizzas are typically smaller in diameter but much thicker

10. Soda Can Stacks: An Unexpected Measurement

While individual soda cans are much smaller, a stack of five standard 12 oz (355 ml) aluminum cans measures slightly over 20 inches in height.

Soda can dimensions:

• Height: Approximately 4.83 inches (12.3 cm)
• Diameter: 2.6 inches (6.6 cm)

Fun facts about soda cans:

• Aluminum cans are 100% recyclable and can be recycled indefinitely
• The first aluminum beverage can was introduced in 1958
• The average American’s soda consumption has been declining in recent years, but exact figures vary by study and year

Other stacked items reaching 20 inches:

• About 13-14 standard DVD cases
• Approximately 40 thin paperback books
• Around 7-8 reams of printer paper

DIY Project: Creating Your Own 20-Inch Measuring Tool

Why not create your own 20-inch measuring tool? It’s a fun project that can help you appreciate this dimension in your daily life.

Materials needed:

• 24-inch wooden dowel (1/2 inch diameter)
• Sandpaper (medium and fine grit)
• Ruler or tape measure
• Pencil
• Saw (hand saw or power saw)
• Paint or wood stain (optional)

Step-by-step instructions:

1. Measure and mark 20 inches on the wooden dowel.
2. Carefully cut the dowel at the 20-inch mark.
3. Sand the cut end and edges for a smooth finish.
4. (Optional) Apply paint or wood stain for aesthetics.
5. Use a ruler to mark 1-inch increments along the length.

Creative uses for your new tool:

• Gardening: Measure plant spacing or depth for planting bulbs
• Home decor: Ensure consistent hanging heights for picture frames
• Cooking: Check the diameter of pizzas or pies
• Fitness: Track progress in flexibility exercises

The Science Behind 20 Inches

The 20-inch dimension intersects with various scientific principles and industrial applications.

Physics principles related to this length:

• Wavelength: 20 inches corresponds to a radio wave frequency of about 590 MHz
• Pendulum motion: A 20-inch pendulum has a period of about 0.9 seconds
• Resonance: Affects sound production in musical instruments like guitar bodies

How different industries utilize measurements close to 20 inches:

• Automotive: Wheel sizes and certain body panel dimensions
• Aerospace: Specific components in aircraft manufacturing
• Agriculture: Spacing for certain crop rows or irrigation systems
• Construction: Standard dimensions for building materials and fixtures

Conclusion: Embracing the 20-Inch Perspective

As we’ve explored, the 20-inch dimension and sizes close to it play a surprisingly significant role in our world. From the tools we use to the natural wonders around us, this measurement represents a balance of form and function that often goes unnoticed.

By understanding and appreciating the prevalence of objects around 20 inches, we gain a new perspective on the designed world around us. Next time you encounter something measuring close to 20 inches, take a moment to consider its place in the grand scheme of things.

Interactive Elements

To further engage with the concept of 20-inch measurements, try these interactive activities:

“Guess the Almost 20-Inch Object” quiz:

1. I’m used in the kitchen, have a long blade, and cut through crusty exteriors. What am I? (Answer: Large bread knife)
2. I illuminate your workspace and often have an adjustable neck. What am I? (Answer: Tall table lamp)
3. I’m rectangular, made of paper, and often contain important information. What am I? (Answer: Two letter-size papers placed end-to-end)

Reader challenge: Share your own discoveries of objects close to 20 inches! Take photos of the objects you find in your daily life and share them on social media with the hashtag #Almost20InchChallenge. You might be surprised by how many you encounter!

By embracing the 20-inch dimension and sizes close to it, we gain a new appreciation for the thoughtful design that shapes our world. From the practical to the whimsical, these objects remind us that even the most ordinary measurements can have extraordinary significance.

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