Take the tour ×  I was filling my car earlier today, and noticed
a sticker posted on the pump.  This pump dispenses fuel at a
volumetric amount measured in standard gallons (231 cubic
inches). It does not adjust for temperature, or other factors
that may affect the energy content of each gallon.  This got me
thinking.    1. What would be the optimal conditions to fuel
your car so that you can get the most energy per gallon? Let's
assume we measure this in miles per gallon achieved traveling at
60mph in a standard car that advertises 30mpg; a Honda Civic,
perhaps.    2. Why would temperature affect the energy of each
gallon?  share|improve this question As you are charged per
volume and the density increases with decreasing temperatures it
is better to fuel when it is cold. In practice is does not
matter though, as the fuel comes from an underground tank which
stays at almost a constant temperature. –  Alexander Nov 29 '12
at 23:20 @Alenanno to state that one is not sure about the tags
and needs help in this i