Anthony is laying concrete for a driveway. The driveway is to be 15 feet long by 12 feet wide by 7 inches deep. Answer parts (a) through (c). (a) Determine the volume of concrete needed in cubic feet. The volume of concrete is \( \square \) (Simplify your answer. Type an integer or a decimal.)

To find the volume of concrete needed, you can use the formula for the volume of a rectangular prism (length × width × height). First, convert the depth from inches to feet: 7 inches is equivalent to \( \frac{7}{12} \) feet, or approximately 0.5833 feet. Now, calculate the volume: \[ Volume = 15 \text{ feet (length)} \times 12 \text{ feet (width)} \times 0.5833 \text{ feet (depth)} \] \[ Volume = 15 \times 12 \times 0.5833 \approx 105 \text{ cubic feet} \] So, the volume of concrete needed is \( 105 \) cubic feet. Now for some additional fun info! Did you know that concrete is one of the most widely used construction materials in the world? It has been around since ancient Roman times! They famously made structures like the Pantheon and aqueducts which still stand today. Modern-day concrete often includes additives to improve its strength and durability—making those ancient Romans look like they were onto something good! When pouring concrete, it's crucial to have the right tools and preparation. One common mistake is underestimating the amount needed—always measure and calculate carefully to avoid running short! It’s also important to ensure the surface is level and properly compacted before pouring to prevent cracking and settling later on. Have fun with your project, and don’t forget to wear protective gear!