Math Problem Statement

The EPA limits the rate at which gas can flow into your gas tank when filling up your car at a gas station. Suppose that the corner station will dispense gas at a constant rate of 8.9 gallons/minute. a. How much gas will be dispensed in 0.8 minutes? b. How much gas will be dispensed in 2.6 minutes? c. How long will it take for 15 gallons of gas to be dispensed?

Solution

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Problem 1:

The given rate of gas flow is 8.9 gallons per minute.


Part (a):

How much gas will be dispensed in 0.8 minutes?

The formula for calculating the amount of gas is: Gas dispensed=Rate of flow×Time\text{Gas dispensed} = \text{Rate of flow} \times \text{Time}

Substitute the values: Gas dispensed=8.9gallons/minute×0.8minutes=7.12gallons\text{Gas dispensed} = 8.9 \, \text{gallons/minute} \times 0.8 \, \text{minutes} = 7.12 \, \text{gallons}

Answer: 7.12 gallons


Part (b):

How much gas will be dispensed in 2.6 minutes?

Using the same formula: Gas dispensed=8.9gallons/minute×2.6minutes=23.14gallons\text{Gas dispensed} = 8.9 \, \text{gallons/minute} \times 2.6 \, \text{minutes} = 23.14 \, \text{gallons}

Answer: 23.14 gallons


Part (c):

How long will it take for 15 gallons of gas to be dispensed?

The formula for time is: Time=Gas dispensedRate of flow\text{Time} = \frac{\text{Gas dispensed}}{\text{Rate of flow}}

Substitute the values: Time=15gallons8.9gallons/minute=1.69minutes\text{Time} = \frac{15 \, \text{gallons}}{8.9 \, \text{gallons/minute}} = 1.69 \, \text{minutes}

Answer: 1.69 minutes


Let me know if you want further explanations or clarifications! Here are 5 related questions to expand your understanding:

  1. What would happen if the flow rate were reduced to 7 gallons/minute? How would it change the time for dispensing 15 gallons?
  2. How would the formula change if the flow rate varied over time?
  3. What is the unit conversion process if the rate is given in gallons/hour instead of gallons/minute?
  4. How can you represent these constant rate changes graphically?
  5. If the tank has a maximum capacity of 50 gallons, how long would it take to fill it at the given rate?

Tip: Always ensure units are consistent when solving real-world rate problems!

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Math Problem Analysis

Mathematical Concepts

Rate of change
Proportions
Linear relationships

Formulas

Gas dispensed = Rate of flow × Time
Time = Gas dispensed ÷ Rate of flow

Theorems

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Suitable Grade Level

Grades 6-8