How many 12 cup servings are in 5 pounds of potatoes?

This question can't be answered without knowing the density of the potatoes. Here's why:

* Potatoes vary in size and density: A 5-pound bag of small potatoes will yield fewer cups than a 5-pound bag of large potatoes.

* Cooking methods affect volume: Potatoes will shrink when cooked, and the amount of shrinkage depends on how they're cooked (mashed, roasted, etc.).

To figure out the servings, you'd need to:

1. Determine the density of the potatoes: This can be done by weighing a known volume of potatoes.

2. Calculate the total volume of the 5 pounds of potatoes: Divide the weight (5 pounds) by the density you just calculated.

3. Estimate the volume lost during cooking: This will vary based on the cooking method.

4. Divide the final volume by the serving size: 12 cups per serving.

Example:

Let's assume your potatoes have a density of 0.75 pounds per cup. Here's how you'd calculate the servings:

1. Total volume: 5 pounds / 0.75 pounds/cup = 6.67 cups

2. Assume 20% shrinkage during cooking: 6.67 cups * 0.20 = 1.33 cups lost

3. Final volume: 6.67 cups - 1.33 cups = 5.34 cups

4. Servings: 5.34 cups / 12 cups/serving = 0.45 servings

Important Note: This is just an example. The actual number of servings will depend on the specific potatoes and cooking method.