The figure shows 2 containers, Container R and Container S. Container S is completely empty while Container R is filled with water to the brim. Water from Tap Q flows in at a rate of 1.2 litres per minute while water drains from Tap P at a rate of 1.44 litres per minute. Both taps are turned on at the same time. After some time, the heights of the water level in both tanks became the same.
- Find the time taken for the heights of the water level to be the same in both tanks.
- Find the height of the water level at that point of time.
(a)
Base area of Container R
= 30 x 20
= 600 cm
2 1 ℓ = 1000 cm
3 1.2 ℓ = 1200 cm
3 1.44 ℓ = 1440 cm
3 Height increase per minute for Container R
= 1200 ÷ 600
= 2 cm/min
Base area of Container S
= 40 x 18
= 720 cm
2 Height decrease per minute for Container S
= 1440 ÷ 720
= 2 cm/min
Let t be the time taken for both the water levels to become the same.
2 t = 12 - 2 t
4 t = 12
1 t = 3 min
(b)
Height of the water level
= 2 t
= 2 x 3
= 6 cm
Answer(s): (a) 3 min; (b) 6 cm