Chapter 8.2, Problem 8CE

Masonry To determine the approximate number of concrete blocks needed to construct a wall, the following formula is often used:

$\text{Number}\text{of}\text{blocks}\text{per}\text{course}=N\times \text{area}\text{of}\text{one}\text{course}\text{(sq}\text{ft})$

where N is a number that depends on the size of the block. How many 8-in. by 8-in. by 16-in. concrete blocks are needed to construct a foundation wall 8 in. thick with a total length of 120 ft if it is laid five courses high? Use $N=\frac{9}{8}$ for this block size. (Hint: The blocks are set lengthwise. Translate all dimensions to inches.)