Question 1

How long is a marathon?

Accepted Answer

A marathon is exactly 42.195 km (26 miles 385 yards). This odd distance comes from the 1908 London Olympics course adjustment.

Question 2

Why is a marathon 42.195 km?

Accepted Answer

The 1908 London Olympics added 385 yards so the race could finish in front of the royal box. This became the standard distance.

Question 3

Is this conversion factor exact?

Accepted Answer

Metric-to-metric conversions are exact (1 km = 1000 m). Imperial-to-metric factors like 1 inch = 2.54 cm are exact by international agreement.

Question 4

Why do some countries use different units?

Accepted Answer

Historical reasons - the metric system spread from France after 1795. The US, UK, and a few others retained older systems. Science uses metric worldwide.

marathon to km Converter

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