Chapter 5: The Mathematics of Gauge Stick in Gas Stations

The intent of this case study is to explore the mathematical idea inherent in the use of gauge stick in gasoline stations. Generally, two methods are used to verify the amount of gasoline pumped in the stations’ reservoirs and consequently sold to customers: gauge stick and computer-based operation. The gauge stick method used before and after unloading gasoline into the underground gas tank is carried out by the gas truck drivers and involves measuring volume. The computer-based method, on the other hand, is conducted by customer service representatives (CSR) and is based on computer generated readings. The study sample is comprised of four truck drivers and eight CSRs. All participants were high school graduates, certified as a truck driver or CSR, and came from different cultural backgrounds. Typically, CSRs do not need any special certification if they hold a high-school diploma, however CSRs’ hiring requires prior experience and one week of in-store training. Data was collected from different gas stations on site as gasoline truck drivers delivered gasoline and CSRs sold gasoline and groceries.