How much does one gallon of water weigh in pounds?

One gallon of water weighs approximately 8.34 pounds due to the standard metric conversion where the weight of a liquid can be calculated based on its density. Water, at a temperature of about 62 degrees Fahrenheit (17 degrees Celsius), is commonly used for this measurement, as it provides a reliable and consistent reference point. This value is widely recognized and utilized in various applications, including agriculture, engineering, and science.

The other options do not reflect the actual weight of a gallon of water. For instance, 7.5 pounds may be a common misconception that arises from rounding or confusion between different measuring systems. The weight of 5 pounds and 9 pounds also deviate significantly from the correct figure, indicating a misunderstanding of how liquid volumes translate to weight. Knowing that a gallon of water is 8.34 pounds is essential for accurate calculations in fields where precise measurements of liquids are important.