Barrels Per Capita: A Unit Conversion Problem

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on calculating the total annual petroleum consumption in the US based on a per capita figure of 23 barrels. With a population estimate of approximately 330 million people, the total consumption is calculated to be around 7.59 billion barrels, which aligns closely with the option of 6 billion barrels provided in the discussion. The term "per capita" is clarified as meaning "per person," essential for understanding the calculation. This highlights the importance of accurate population figures in unit conversion problems.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of unit conversion and basic arithmetic.
  • Familiarity with the concept of per capita measurements.
  • Basic knowledge of population statistics.
  • Awareness of petroleum consumption metrics.
NEXT STEPS
  • Research population statistics and their impact on resource consumption.
  • Learn about unit conversion techniques in environmental science.
  • Explore the implications of per capita metrics in economic studies.
  • Investigate global petroleum consumption trends and comparisons.
USEFUL FOR

Students, environmental scientists, economists, and anyone interested in understanding resource consumption metrics and their implications on society.

Soaring Crane
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If the annual consumption of petroleum in the US is about 23 barrels per capita, the total annual consumption of petroleum in the US is closest to:

1. 12 mill barrels
2. 240 mill barrels
3. 2 billion barrels
4. 6 bill barrels
5. 10 bill barrels

I don't know what is meant by "capita." :confused: Any help is appreciated. Thanks.
 
Mathematics news on Phys.org
per capita=per citizen/person
 
"per capita" is a latin phrase meaning "by heads" or per person.
 
In other words, how many people are there in the US?
 

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