Finding area from volume and thickness

In summary, the conversation discusses determining the surface area in square feet that can be covered by 1 gallon of paint when applied at a thickness of 0.15 cm. However, there is no given shape to calculate the area, so the equation for volume, area, and thickness must be used. The suggested approach is to convert the thickness to feet and then use the formula for volume to solve for the area.
  • #1
cheerspens
92
0

Homework Statement


How large a surface are in units of square feet will 1 gallon of paint cover if we apply a coat of paint that is 0.15 centimeters thick?


Homework Equations


There is no shape given that the paint must cover to know which volume and area equation to use. There must be some equation I do not know involving volume, area and thickness to solve this problem.


The Attempt at a Solution


All I have been able to do is conversions to different units. I don't know where to begin. Thanks for any help you can give!
 
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  • #2
cheerspens said:

Homework Statement


How large a surface are in units of square feet will 1 gallon of paint cover if we apply a coat of paint that is 0.15 centimeters thick?


Homework Equations


There is no shape given that the paint must cover to know which volume and area equation to use. There must be some equation I do not know involving volume, area and thickness to solve this problem.


The Attempt at a Solution


All I have been able to do is conversions to different units. I don't know where to begin. Thanks for any help you can give!

I would convert the 0.15 cm thickness to units of feet. You can assume that the paint will cover a square area that is L ft on each side. The paint will then be in the shape of a very thin box L x L x thickness.
 
  • #3
Volume = area x thickness

so

area = volume/thickness

in appropriate units obviously.
 

FAQ: Finding area from volume and thickness

What is the formula for finding area from volume and thickness?

The formula for finding area from volume and thickness is A = V/t, where A is the area, V is the volume, and t is the thickness.

Why is it important to find the area from volume and thickness?

Finding the area from volume and thickness allows us to calculate the surface area of an object, which is important for many applications such as construction, manufacturing, and engineering.

What units should be used for volume and thickness when finding the area?

The units for volume and thickness should be consistent, such as both being measured in meters. This will ensure that the resulting area is also in square meters.

Can the formula for finding area from volume and thickness be used for any shape?

Yes, the formula can be used for any shape as long as the volume and thickness are measured consistently and in the same units.

Are there any limitations to using this formula?

One limitation is that it assumes the thickness is constant throughout the entire object. This formula may not be accurate for irregularly shaped objects or objects with varying thickness.

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