Final answer:
A private helper function called convertToGallons() can be implemented to divide the number of cups by 16, returning the result as a double, which reflects the conversion from cups to gallons.
Step-by-step explanation:
Defining a Private Helper Function to Convert Cups to Gallons
To define a private helper function named convertToGallons(), which converts a data member cups to gallons and returns the result as a double, you must first understand the conversion between cups and gallons. In the US customary system, 1 gallon equals 16 cups. Therefore, to convert cups to gallons, you divide the number of cups by 16. The helper function, presumably within a class in programming, could be implemented as follows:
private double convertToGallons(double cups) {
return cups / 16.0;
}
This function is labeled private, meaning it can only be accessed by other methods within the same class. The division by 16.0 ensures that the result is a double precision floating point number, providing the necessary accuracy for the conversion.