1. What is a Volume Calculator?

Definition: This calculator computes the volume of common shapes (rectangular prisms and cylinders) based on their dimensions.

Purpose: It helps students, engineers, and professionals quickly determine the capacity or space occupied by three-dimensional objects.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses different formulas based on shape:

Where:

• \( V \) — Volume (cubic units)
• \( L \) — Length (rectangular)
• \( W \) — Width (rectangular)
• \( H \) — Height (rectangular)
• \( r \) — Radius (cylindrical)
• \( h \) — Height (cylindrical)

Explanation: For rectangular shapes, multiply all three dimensions. For cylinders, multiply π by radius squared and height.

3. Importance of Volume Calculation

Details: Volume calculations are essential in construction, manufacturing, fluid dynamics, and many scientific applications.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Select the shape, enter the required dimensions (all values must be > 0), and click Calculate. Units must be consistent.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What units should I use?
A: Use any consistent units (inches, feet, meters, etc.) but all dimensions must be in the same units.

Q2: How precise are the calculations?
A: Results are accurate to 3 decimal places. Cylindrical calculations use π = 3.14159265359.

Q3: Can I calculate other shapes?
A: Currently only rectangular and cylindrical shapes are supported in this calculator.

Q4: Why is my cylindrical volume larger than expected?
A: Remember that radius is squared in the formula - small radius changes create large volume differences.

Q5: How do I convert between units?
A: Convert all dimensions to the same unit before calculating (e.g., 1 foot = 12 inches).