A tank can be filled by Pipe A in 4 hours and by Pipe B in 6 hours. If both pipes are opened simultaneously, how long will it take to fill the tank?

Thu, 30 Apr 2026 04:01:24 +0000

**A tank can be filled by Pipe A in 4 hours and by Pipe B in 6 hours. If both pipes are opened simultaneously, how long will it take to fill the tank?** Why are more people recently exploring how Pipe A and Pipe B work together to fill a tank faster? This simple yet intriguing math problem reflects a growing curiosity about efficiency, resource management, and plumbing systems—especially in homes and businesses where reliability matters. The question isn’t just technical; it reveals how modern users are drawn to understanding everyday infrastructure through data and logic. When two water pipes operate simultaneously, their combined flow rate determines the actual fill time—showcasing how small adjustments lead to meaningful gains in time and energy. To solve this, begin by calculating each pipe’s individual fill rate. Pipe A fills the tank in 4 hours, so its rate is 1/4 of the tank per hour. Pipe B fills it in 6 hours, giving a rate of 1/6 per hour. When both operate together, their rates multiply—like adding parts of a whole puzzle—so combined, they deliver 1/4 + 1/6 of the tank each hour. Finding a common denominator, this equals 3/12 + 2/12 = 5/12 of the tank per hour. To fill the full tank, divide 1 by 5/12: 1 ÷ (5/12) = 12/5 hours, or 2.4 hours. That’s 2 hours and 24 minutes—faster than either pipe alone. This insight shows how collaborative systems deliver measurable benefits. People are actively discussing this pattern across DIY forums and home maintenance platforms. The tendency isn’t just curiosity—it’s practical. Many homeowners and property managers want to optimize routine tasks, reduce waste, and improve efficiency. Understanding real-world flow time calculations empowers smarter planning, whether managing a water storage system or troubleshooting pipeline access. When two sources work in tandem, time savings compound, reinforcing trust in coordinated systems.