Final answer:
The CRJ 550/700 has a cargo capacity of about 20 tons, but using batteries to power the aircraft would significantly reduce cargo space.
Step-by-step explanation:
The maximum weight capacity for the CRJ 550/700 cargo bins is approximately 20 tons. However, if utilizing these aircraft for electric-powered flight using lithium-ion batteries, a significant portion of cargo space would be compromised. Considering that lithium-ion batteries have an energy density of 0.17 kcal/g, which is substantially lower than that of gasoline at approximately 11 kcal/g, a massive increase in battery weight is required to match the energy provided by fuel. Consequently, if we were to use batteries as the sole energy source, up to 85% of the cargo capacity could potentially be occupied by the batteries to maintain comparable range, substantially limiting the aircraft's utility for transporting additional cargo or passengers.
The maximum weight capacity for the CRJ 550/700 cargo bins is 20 tons, or 40,000 pounds. This means that the cargo bins can hold up to 20 tons of cargo without exceeding the weight limit.The information provided about battery mass and energy density is not directly relevant to the weight capacity of the cargo bins. The battery mass and energy density are discussed in relation to the feasibility of using batteries for aircraft propulsion.