workers are to install a hatch (door) near the bottom of an empty storage tank, in choosing how strong to make

Question

workers are to install a hatch (door) near the bottom of an empty storage tank, in choosing how strong to make the hatch, does it matter how tall the tank it? how wide it is? whether it is going to hold watch or mercury?explain.

Answer 1

The tank height and liquid density matter, as both affect pressure. Pressure = g*h*d, where g=grav. accel, h=height, d=density. Door width has no effect on pressure, but both width and height of the door affect the force on the hatch structure and locking mechanism. Force = pressure*area.

Answer 2

Buy a Japanese car. They never do this. Seriously, if you can get to the gas tank to bang on it, you may see if it "feels" full. Second, I would push the fill flap out of the way with a screwdriver and shine a flashlight down there to try to see gas. You probably won't be able to see far, as there is usually a baffle, but you may see gas if full. I'm sure you could sweet talk a man into these tasks so that you don't get yourself dirty. You may also try a full-service gas station (if they exist where you are) or a local parts place like Auto Zone to have a guy look at it. Good luck, hope you don't get stranded.