Why can paper only be folded 7 times, no matter the size of paper?
Contrary to popular belief, this isn't true. The thing is, though, that the number of sheets on top of each other and therefore the total thickness that has to be folded increases exponentially (see urandom_username456's answer). This means that you need a really, really big sheet of paper to be…
The Short Answer
Contrary to popular belief, this isn't true. The thing is, though, that the number of sheets on top of each other and therefore the total thickness that has to be folded increases exponentially (see urandom_username456's answer). This means that you need a really, really big sheet of paper to begin with if you want to fold it more than 7 times, because otherwise the paper will just tear and stuff. Using thinner paper also helps. Mythbusters sort of busted this myth. They used a sheet the size of a football field I think and managed to fold it 11 times if I remember correctly. If you want to be able to fold it 12 times, you need a sheet the size of *at least* two(!) football fields, but it isn't impossible. Edit: There are a lot of corrections in replies to my comment. Thanks for the corrections. I won't update my post, so to potential readers: just read the replies to get accurate info! There are also good replies to other answers here. And of course, google is your friend.
Analysis
Key Concepts: Sheet, paper, fold
This explanation focuses on sheet, paper, fold and spans 180 words across 12 sentences. At 150% above the average Science explanation (72 words), this is one of the more thorough answers in this category, reflecting the complexity of the underlying question.
What This Answer Covers
The explanation opens with: “Contrary to popular belief, this isn't true.” It then elaborates by presenting a contrasting perspective, ultimately building toward a complete picture across 12 connected points.
How This Compares in Science
Ranked #3 of 500 Science questions by answer depth (top 1%). This places it in the comprehensive tier — the top quarter of most thoroughly answered questions. Questions at this depth typically involve multi-faceted topics requiring nuanced explanation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is there a simple explanation for why paper only be folded 7 times, no matter the size of paper?
Contrary to popular belief, this isn't true. The thing is, though, that the number of sheets on top of each other and therefore the total thickness that has to be folded increases exponentially (see urandom_username456's answer). This means that…
How detailed is this explanation compared to similar Science questions?
This is one of the most thorough answer at 180 words, ranked #3 of 500 Science questions by depth. The key concepts covered are sheet, paper, fold.
What approach does this answer take to explain paper only be folded 7 times, no matter the size of paper?
The explanation uses root cause analysis and contrasting perspectives across 180 words. It is categorized under Science and addresses the question through 2 analytical lenses.