The barn is a unit of area and is used in particle physics with the symbol b.
It represents approximately the area of the cross-section of a uraneum nucleus, so is very small compared to most other recognised units of area.
It is also used to measure the interaction of a nucleus with an electric field gradient in nuclear quadrupole and magnetic resonance.
The square foot is a unit of area and is an imperial unit with the symbol ft².
One square foot is equal in area to a square with edges one foot in length.
It is used a lot in expressing the internal size of a house, apartment, office or other properties so is a useful unit to understand.