Math Problem Statement

Two mathematically similar containers have heights of 30 cm and 75 cm. The larger container has a capacity of 5.5 litres. Calculate the capacity of the smaller container. Give your answer in millilitres

Solution

Mathematically similar containers have volumes that scale with the cube of their corresponding linear dimensions (such as height).

Step 1: Establish the Scale Factor

The height ratio between the smaller and larger container is:

3075=25\frac{30}{75} = \frac{2}{5}

Since volume scales with the cube of the linear ratio:

Volume scale factor=(25)3=8125\text{Volume scale factor} = \left(\frac{2}{5}\right)^3 = \frac{8}{125}

Step 2: Calculate the Volume of the Smaller Container

The larger container has a capacity of 5.5 litres = 5500 millilitres.

Smaller container volume=5500×8125\text{Smaller container volume} = 5500 \times \frac{8}{125}

=5500×0.064= 5500 \times 0.064

=352 mL= 352 \text{ mL}

Final Answer:

The capacity of the smaller container is 352 mL.


Do you want a more detailed breakdown or have any questions?

Here are some related questions:

  1. How do you find the ratio of two mathematically similar objects?
  2. Why does volume scale with the cube of the linear ratio?
  3. How do you convert between litres and millilitres?
  4. What other real-world applications use volume scaling?
  5. How does surface area scale for mathematically similar objects?

Tip: When working with similar shapes, always determine whether you're dealing with length, area, or volume before applying the ratio. 🚀

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Math Problem Analysis

Mathematical Concepts

Similarity and Scaling
Volume Ratios
Proportional Reasoning

Formulas

Scale Factor = (Smaller Height / Larger Height)
Volume Scale Factor = (Scale Factor)^3
Smaller Volume = Larger Volume × Volume Scale Factor

Theorems

Scaling Laws for Similar Figures

Suitable Grade Level

Grades 8-10