How to Calculate the Capacity of a Rectangular Gravity Feed Tank

Calculating the capacity of a rectangular gravity feed tank may seem daunting at first glance, but with the right approach, it’s not only straightforward but also quite satisfying to tackle! This guide is designed for those gearing up for the Oilers/Plant Tenders Civil Service exam—let’s make sure you feel confident handling these calculations when it matters most.

So, picture this: you have a tank that measures 27 inches high, 30 inches long, and 28 inches wide. You might think, “Okay, what’s next?” Well, step one is actually to embrace that “Ah-ha!” moment; it's about finding the volume of that tank in cubic inches! Ready for the formula? Here it goes: you simply multiply the length by the width by the height (length × width × height). Easy enough, right?

In our case, we have:

• Length = 30 inches
• Width = 28 inches
• Height = 27 inches

Got your calculator handy? Let’s do the math together:

• Volume = 30 in × 28 in × 27 in = 22,680 cubic inches.

Now, you're probably asking, “What’s that in gallons?” Here’s where it gets fun! To convert cubic inches to gallons, you’ll need a handy conversion factor: there are 231 cubic inches in a gallon. Now we can easily convert our volume:

Capacity in gallons = 22,680 cubic inches ÷ 231 ≈ 98.4 gallons.

And there’s your answer! Feeling the rush of a job well done? Because you should be! The capacity of our rectangular gravity feed tank is approximately 98.4 gallons. So, if presented with options, you’ll confidently know that the correct one is C.

Understanding these concepts isn’t just for test-takers but for anyone who interacts with tanks daily, whether in industrial applications or for personal usage. Knowing how to calculate tank capacity can be crucial in making informed decisions, whether it's ensuring you have enough fuel or managing resources effectively.

In practice, this knowledge can help you not only in exams but also in real-life situations involving water storage, chemical management, or even designing systems that best fit your needs. Ah, the sweet satisfaction of practicality in education—doesn’t it just get you?

So, next time you’re faced with a tank measurement challenge, remember these steps. Break the problem down, follow the calculations, and you’ll have no trouble navigating tank capacities in the future. Keep practicing these skills, and you’ll be more than prepared for your upcoming exam!