How Many Cheesesteaks Can You Fit Inside The Liberty Bell?

Jim Pappas has eaten more than 500 cheesesteaks in his quest for the
Jim Pappas has eaten more than 500 cheesesteaks in his quest for the from abc7chicago.com

How Many Cheesesteaks Can You Fit Inside the Liberty Bell?

The Liberty Bell: A Symbol of Freedom

The Liberty Bell, located in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, is an iconic symbol of American independence. This historic bell, with its famous crack, has become a popular tourist attraction, drawing visitors from all over the world. While the Liberty Bell holds great significance in American history, have you ever wondered how many cheesesteaks could fit inside it? Let’s explore this amusing idea!

The Dimensions of the Liberty Bell

Before we begin calculating the number of cheesesteaks, it’s important to understand the dimensions of the Liberty Bell. The bell measures approximately 3 feet tall and 12 feet in circumference. It weighs around 2,080 pounds, making it quite a hefty object.

The Size of a Cheesesteak

A traditional Philadelphia cheesesteak typically consists of thinly sliced beefsteak, melted cheese, and various toppings, all served on a long roll. On average, a cheesesteak measures around 9 inches in length and weighs about 10 ounces.

Calculating Capacity

To estimate the number of cheesesteaks that could fit inside the Liberty Bell, we need to calculate its volume. As the Liberty Bell is not a perfect cylinder, we’ll approximate its shape to simplify our calculations.

Approximating the Liberty Bell’s Shape

Let’s imagine the Liberty Bell as a cylinder with a height of 3 feet and a circumference of 12 feet. Using the formula for the volume of a cylinder (V = πr²h), we can estimate the volume of the bell.

Estimating the Volume

Assuming a radius of 1.91 feet (half the circumference divided by π), we can calculate the approximate volume of the Liberty Bell. The estimated volume comes out to be around 21.96 cubic feet.

Calculating the Number of Cheesesteaks

Now, let’s determine the number of cheesesteaks that can fit inside the Liberty Bell. As the average cheesesteak takes up approximately 0.07 cubic feet of space, we can divide the volume of the bell by the volume of a single cheesesteak.

The Result

Based on our calculations, we find that approximately 314 cheesesteaks can fit inside the Liberty Bell. However, it’s important to note that this is purely a theoretical calculation and doesn’t take into account the bell’s crack or any obstructions inside it.

A Fun Thought Experiment

While it’s unlikely that anyone would actually attempt to fill the Liberty Bell with cheesesteaks, this thought experiment provides an entertaining perspective on the bell’s capacity. It’s a lighthearted way to appreciate the cultural significance of both the Liberty Bell and the beloved Philadelphia cheesesteak.

Conclusion

The Liberty Bell may not be suitable for storing cheesesteaks, but it continues to serve as a powerful symbol of freedom and independence. So, the next time you visit Philadelphia, make sure to try a delicious, authentic cheesesteak while also taking the time to explore the historical significance of the Liberty Bell.