How this calculator works
Every solid on this page has a volume formula built from its dimensions. A cube or rectangular prism multiplies three edge lengths. A cylinder multiplies a circular base by its height, and a cone takes one third of that. A sphere uses four thirds of pi times the cube of the radius. A square pyramid takes one third of the base area times the height. The same number is offered as a capacity in litres, which is handy for liquids and containers because one cubic metre holds exactly 1000 litres.
Formula
Cube: V = a³. Rectangular prism: V = lwh. Cylinder: V = πr²h. Cone: V = πr²h/3. Sphere: V = 4/3 πr³. Square pyramid: V = a²h/3.
Worked example
A cube with a 3 m side has a volume of 27 m³, which is a capacity of 27,000 litres. A cylinder with a 2 m radius and a 5 m height has a volume of 20π ≈ 62.832 m³, about 62,832 litres.
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Frequently asked questions
Which solid should I choose?
Match the real object as closely as possible. Use a rectangular prism for a box, a cylinder for a drum or pipe, a cone for a conical pile, and a sphere for a ball. The closer the shape, the closer the volume.
Why is one cubic metre 1000 litres?
A litre is defined as one cubic decimetre, and a metre is ten decimetres. Cubing ten gives 1000, so a cubic metre contains 1000 cubic decimetres, or 1000 litres.
Does the capacity output round differently?
The capacity is the same volume expressed in litres. Both outputs come from one calculation; only the displayed unit changes, so no rounding difference is introduced.