5B

5B is a designation that appears in several unrelated contexts. The most common reference is to graphite pencil hardness.

In pencils, the B series denotes a softer lead compared with H-series pencils. The higher the number preceding B, the softer and darker the mark. A 5B pencil provides a relatively soft, dark line and is frequently used for shading and expressive drawing, offering a broad tonal range. It sits between mid-range soft pencils such as 4B and the very soft 6B or 9B within the typical scale used by artists. By contrast, H-series pencils (such as 2H, 4H) produce lighter, firmer lines. The scale commonly runs from 9H to 9B with HB being a mid-grade.

Outside of drawing, 5B serves as an alphanumeric designation in various systems, including transportation, manufacturing, and architecture. It can appear as a route label, a model or part number, a room or floor designation, or other codes. Because 5B is not tied to a single standard, its exact meaning is determined by the specific domain and context.

Given its multiple uses, the intended interpretation of 5B depends on where and how it is encountered, making context essential for accurate understanding.