What is the cubic inch capacity of a four-inch square by 2 1/8-inch deep metal outlet box?

To determine the cubic inch capacity of the outlet box, you start by calculating the volume using its dimensions. The outlet box is described as being four inches square and 2 1/8 inches deep.

1. Calculate the area of the base: Since the outlet box is square, the area of the base can be calculated by multiplying the length of one side by itself. Thus, the area of the base is:

[

4 \text{ in.} \times 4 \text{ in.} = 16 \text{ in.}^2

]

2. Convert the depth from inches to a proper fraction: The depth is given as 2 1/8 inches. In improper fraction form, this is ( \frac{17}{8} ) inches.

3. Calculate the volume: Now, the volume of the box can be determined by multiplying the area of the base by the depth:

[

\text{Volume} = \text{Area} \times \text{Depth}

]

So substituting the values:

[

\text{Volume} = 16 \text{ in.}^