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Compare capacities

Capacity is the amount a container can hold, and it is compared using the same quantity of liquid or equal-sized informal units rather than the container’s height, width, or shape alone. A learner can determine and describe which of two or more containers holds more, less, or about the same amount, understanding that a taller or wider appearance does not necessarily indicate greater capacity; this reasoning supports later measurement with standard units.

Detailed Explanation: Compare capacities

Capacity tells how much a container can hold. To compare capacities, use the same-sized cup or scoop for each container. Do not decide only by looking at which container is taller or wider.

Example: Which holds more: a tall, skinny bottle or a short, wide bowl?

  1. Use the same small cup each time.
  2. Fill the bottle with the small cup. It takes 55 cups to fill it.
  3. Empty the cup and fill the bowl. It takes 44 cups to fill it.
  4. Compare the numbers: (5>4)(5 > 4).

So, the bottle holds more than the bowl. The bowl may look wider, but the bottle has the greater capacity because it holds more equal-sized cups.

Learn by doing: Compare capacities

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Measurement - Compare Capacity - Holds More or Less


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