Water Tank Capacity Calculator

Historical Background

Water tanks have been used for millennia to store water for domestic, agricultural, and industrial purposes. Ancient civilizations used them to capture rainwater and distribute it during dry seasons. Today, water tanks are crucial in many industries and infrastructure systems.

Formula

To calculate the water tank capacity, use the formula:

\[ WTC = \pi \times R^2 \times L \]

where:

• \( WTC \) is the water tank capacity in cubic feet,
• \( \pi \) is approximately 3.14159,
• \( R \) is the radius of the tank in feet,
• \( L \) is the length of the tank in feet.

To convert cubic feet to gallons, multiply by 7.48052.

Example Calculation

Suppose a water tank has a radius of 5 feet and a length of 10 feet. The water tank capacity is calculated as follows:

\[ WTC = \pi \times (5)^2 \times 10 \approx 3.14159 \times 25 \times 10 = 785.3982 \, \text{ft}^3 \]

To convert to gallons: \[ WTC_{gal} = 785.3982 \times 7.48052 \approx 5878.6354 \, \text{gallons} \]

Common FAQs

How do I determine the radius of a cylindrical water tank?

• Measure the diameter (widest part of the circular base) and divide by two.

Can this formula be used for tanks of other shapes?

• No, this formula applies specifically to cylindrical tanks. Other shapes like rectangular prisms or spheres require different formulas.

Why is it important to know the capacity of a water tank?

• Understanding capacity helps manage water resources effectively, plan water usage, and ensure a sufficient supply for different needs.