Cylindrical Tank Height Calculation (1587kg, 3.2m)

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    Cylindrical Tank
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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around calculating the height of a cylindrical tank filled with water, given its mass and diameter. Participants explore the relationship between mass, volume, and density, while addressing unit conversions and formula applications.

Discussion Character

  • Homework-related
  • Mathematical reasoning
  • Technical explanation

Main Points Raised

  • One participant presents the problem of calculating the height of a cylindrical tank filled with water, noting confusion about converting mass to height.
  • Another participant suggests using the formula for the volume of a cylinder, V=πr²h, and mentions the relationship between volume, mass, and density.
  • A different participant expresses caution regarding unit conversions, particularly with water density, and mentions obtaining a different height value, suggesting a need to verify the volume formula.
  • One participant acknowledges a mistake in their earlier calculations related to the volume formula, specifically confusing circumference with area.
  • A later reply expresses gratitude for the clarification and understanding gained from the discussion.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants do not reach a consensus on the correct height calculation, as differing answers and approaches are presented. Some participants agree on the general procedure but highlight the importance of careful unit handling and formula verification.

Contextual Notes

There are unresolved issues regarding unit conversions and the application of the volume formula, as well as differing interpretations of the density of water.

shelli8
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I have been stumped on this question for two days~!~
I am not even sure this is where to post this, but any answers or ideas or anything are greatly appreciated! the question is
'CALCULATE THE HEIGHT OF A CYLINDRICAL TANK FILLED WITH WATER HAVING A MASS OF 1587.0 KG. THE DIAMETER OF THE TANK IS 3.2 METERS, PLEASE HAVE THE ANSWER IN METERS'. I can't seem to convert the kilograms into meters, or I can't even find the height equation for this?~~! Any ideas?? thanks so much! shelli
 
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V=pi*r^2*h
volume = mass/density
1L = .001 m^3 (thanks for pointing that out turin :smile:)

Just assume the tank is just made of water with no container.. makes it easier

(edited)
 
Last edited:
I'm not sure, but I think you might want to be a little careful with your units (ρwater ~ 1 kg/L); I got a very different answer for h. Oh, and double check your formula for volume (the factor of 2?). Otherwise, I agree with your procedure.

I have Vcyl = πr2h (Abase x height).

Solving algebraically for h and then using the definition of density and stuff, I got h = 0.20 m. This seems reasonable since a 3.2 m wide cylindrical tank is the area of several bath tubs, and 0.20 m of water in them would be pretty heavy.
 
Last edited:
Originally posted by turin
I'm not sure, but I think you might want to be a little careful with your units (ρwater ~ 1 kg/L); I got a very different answer for h. Oh, and double check your formula for volume (the factor of 2?). Otherwise, I agree with your procedure.
ah, you're right, I was thinking of the circumference and accidentally threw in the 2
 
Right on, that helps immensely, and even makes sense. Thanks for lending out your brains.
 

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