Volume Calculator — Multiple 3D Shapes
Volume
--
Formula Used
--
How to Calculate the Volume of 3D Shapes
Volume measures the three-dimensional space occupied by an object, expressed in cubic units. Different shapes require different formulas: a cube uses V = s cubed, a rectangular prism uses V = length times width times height, and a sphere uses V = (4/3) times pi times r cubed.
Cylinders and cones are related: a cone is exactly one-third the volume of a cylinder with the same base radius and height. This is why the cone formula includes the 1/3 factor. Similarly, a sphere's volume is exactly 2/3 of the cylinder that perfectly contains it.
Volume calculations have practical applications in construction (concrete pouring), cooking (recipe scaling), shipping (box dimensions), aquariums (water capacity), and many scientific fields. This calculator supports the five most commonly needed 3D shapes.
Frequently Asked Questions
What units should I use for volume?
Volume is always in cubic units. If you measure in centimeters, the volume is in cubic centimeters (cm cubed). If in feet, the result is in cubic feet. To convert, remember that 1 cubic meter = 1,000 liters.
How do I convert volume to liters or gallons?
1 cubic meter = 1,000 liters. 1 liter = 0.264172 US gallons. 1 cubic foot = 7.48052 US gallons. Multiply your cubic unit result by the appropriate conversion factor.
What is the volume of a hemisphere?
A hemisphere is half a sphere, so its volume is V = (2/3) times pi times r cubed. You can calculate this by using the sphere option and dividing the result by 2.