How many gallons of water will a 100 pound steer drink per day if the temperature is 90°F?

The correct answer is based on understanding the hydration needs of cattle in relation to their weight and environmental temperature. At 90°F, the water intake for cattle increases due to heat stress, which enhances their need for hydration.

For a steer weighing 100 pounds, a general guideline suggests that cattle can drink approximately 1 gallon of water for every 100 pounds of body weight per day under typical conditions. However, this requirement increases significantly with rising temperatures. In hotter weather, it is common for beef cattle to require significantly more water, sometimes around 1.5 to 2 times their normal consumption.

Thus, for a 100-pound steer at 90°F, the expected daily water intake would be on the higher end of the scale, falling within the range provided, emphasizing the need for cattle to stay well-hydrated in warmer conditions. The figure of 17-19 gallons aligns with these adjusted needs for hydration due to temperature stress, reflecting the physiological responses that cattle exhibit under such conditions. This range not only considers the basic need but also accounts for the extra hydration required to help them cope with heat stress.