tank size

Question
hello. is it ok if i use a 24x16x6 size rubbermaid storage box for a corn snake? it can hold 10 gallons but the height is what worries me. is 6 inches high enough? I have another container that has the same demensions except the height is 15 inches. should i use that one instead? my only worry about this one is that it is pure black, letting no light in. my 6 inch container is clear so at least there will be some light getting in. also, how long can this size of tank hold a corn snake for (how long does the corn snake have to get before i have to move it)? also, can i use other homemade things for my snake (such as small rubbermaid containers for hides)? i am asking these questions because i am on a bit of a budget. (don't worry, all these things are only temporary until i can gather up a bit more money)

Answer
You do not say how big your snake is. A good rule of thumb is the perimeter of the container should be double the size of the snake. The container you describer above should not house any snake bigger than 42". I would not worry about the height as corn snakes do not require a lot of clearance. You can use rubbermaid containers as hides. Good luck.