Class 5 Notes - Capacity

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Capacity refers to the amount of liquid a container can hold. Understanding capacity is essential in daily life, from measuring ingredients in cooking to determining the fuel needed for a vehicle. In Class V, students delve deeper into the concept of capacity, learning about various units of measurement, conversions, and practical applications.

Units of Capacity

In the metric system, the primary units used to measure capacity are:

  • Millilitres (mL): Used for small quantities. For example, a teaspoon holds about 5 mL.
  • Litres (L): Used for larger quantities. For instance, a standard water bottle might hold 1 litre.

The relationship between these units is:

1 litre (L) = 1,000 millilitres (mL)

Conversions Between Units

Converting between different units of capacity is a crucial skill. Here's how you can perform these conversions:

  • From Litres to Millilitres: Multiply the number of litres by 1,000.
  • From Millilitres to Litres: Divide the number of millilitres by 1,000.
Example:
  • Convert 2.5 litres to millilitres: 2.5 L × 1,000 = 2,500 mL
  • Convert 750 millilitres to litres: 750 mL ÷ 1,000 = 0.75 L

Measuring Capacity

Various tools are used to measure capacity, depending on the volume of liquid:

  • Measuring Cups and Spoons: Ideal for small quantities, commonly used in cooking.
  • Measuring Jugs: Suitable for moderate quantities, often marked with both millilitres and litres.
  • Measuring Cylinders: Used in laboratories for precise measurements.

When measuring, ensure the container is on a flat surface and read the measurement at eye level to avoid errors.

Practical Applications of Capacity

Understanding capacity has numerous real-life applications:

  • Cooking: Following recipes requires measuring ingredients accurately to ensure the desired outcome.
  • Medicine: Dosages are often prescribed in millilitres, making precise measurement vital for safety.
  • Everyday Purchases: Buying liquids like milk, juice, or fuel involves understanding litres and millilitres to make informed decisions.

Estimating Capacity

Estimation is a valuable skill, especially when precise measurements aren't possible. By familiarizing yourself with common container sizes, you can make reasonable guesses about capacity.

Example: A standard bucket might hold about 10 litres of water. If you have a half-filled bucket, you can estimate it contains approximately 5 litres.

Solving Capacity Problems

When faced with problems involving capacity, follow these steps:

  1. Understand the Problem: Read the question carefully to determine what's being asked.
  2. Identify the Units: Note the units provided and decide if conversions are necessary.
  3. Perform Calculations: Use appropriate mathematical operations to find the solution.
  4. Check Your Work: Review your calculations to ensure accuracy.
Example: If a tank holds 15 litres of water and you pour out 3,500 millilitres, how much water remains?
  • Convert 3,500 mL to litres: 3,500 mL ÷ 1,000 = 3.5 L
  • Subtract the poured amount from the total: 15 L - 3.5 L = 11.5 L
  • Answer: 11.5 litres of water remain in the tank.

Practice Problems

  1. A bottle contains 1.25 litres of juice. How many millilitres is this?
  2. You have a 500 mL measuring cup. How many times will you need to fill it to measure out 3 litres of water?
  3. A recipe requires 750 mL of milk. If you have a 1-litre carton, how much milk will be left after using the required amount?
  4. Convert 2,750 millilitres to litres.
  5. If a tank can hold 20 litres of water, how many 250 mL bottles can be filled from the tank?

Conclusion

Grasping the concept of capacity and mastering the associated units and conversions are fundamental skills in mathematics. These skills are not only essential for academic success but also for solving practical problems in everyday life. Through regular practice and understanding, students can confidently measure, compare, and estimate capacity in various scenarios.