Math Problem Statement

The amount of hydroelectric power produced by a dam is proportional to the flow rate of the water. If a particular dam produces 35,700 kW of power when the flow rate is 2260 ft³/s, how much power will be produced if the flow rate is 2180 ft³/s?

Solution

The question asks for the amount of hydroelectric power produced, given that the power produced by a dam is proportional to the flow rate of water. Specifically, it provides:

  • Known values: 35,700 kW of power is produced when the flow rate is 2260 cubic feet per second (ft³/s).
  • Find: The power produced when the flow rate is 2180 ft³/s.

Since power is proportional to the flow rate, we can set up a ratio between the two scenarios. This can be solved using direct proportion.

The ratio is:

35,700 kW2260 ft3/s=x kW2180 ft3/s\frac{35,700 \text{ kW}}{2260 \text{ ft}^3/\text{s}} = \frac{x \text{ kW}}{2180 \text{ ft}^3/\text{s}}

Now, solve for xx:

x=35,700×21802260x = \frac{35,700 \times 2180}{2260}

I'll calculate that for you.The amount of power produced when the flow rate is 2180 ft³/s is approximately 34,436 kW.

Do you have any questions, or would you like a detailed breakdown of the solution? Here are five related questions to consider:

  1. How does proportionality help in solving real-world problems?
  2. What would happen if the flow rate increased by 10%?
  3. How would you calculate the power for a different flow rate, such as 2000 ft³/s?
  4. What does "direct proportionality" mean in mathematical terms?
  5. How would errors in measuring the flow rate affect the power calculation?

Tip: In problems involving proportionality, always make sure to maintain the ratio correctly between known and unknown values!

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Math Problem Analysis

Mathematical Concepts

Proportions
Direct Proportionality

Formulas

P1 / Q1 = P2 / Q2

Theorems

Direct Proportionality Theorem

Suitable Grade Level

Grades 10-12