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How to use
This tool calculates the main measurements of a right circular cylinder from two dimensions: radius or diameter and height. It returns volume, one base area, lateral area, closed total surface area, one-end-open surface area and base circumference.
- Choose whether the base measurement is radius or diameter.
- Enter the base measurement and height using one consistent unit.
- Read volume in cubic units, areas in square units and circumference in length units.
How it is calculated
Example
For radius 3 and height 10, volume = π×3²×10 ≈ 282.7433, lateral area ≈ 188.4956 and closed total surface area ≈ 245.0442.
Important notes
Use the same unit for both dimensions. Closed total surface area includes both circular ends; the one-end result includes only one base. This is ideal geometry and does not account for wall thickness or manufacturing tolerances.
Worked examples and interpreting results
A right cylinder of radius 2 cm and height 5 cm has volume 20π cm³. Total surface area includes the curved side and two circular bases; an open container requires counting only the surfaces actually present.
| Case | Calculation | Result |
|---|---|---|
| Volume | π × 2² × 5 | 62.831853 cm³ |
| Lateral area | 2 × π × 2 × 5 | 62.831853 cm² |
| Total surface area | 2 × π × 2 × (5 + 2) | 87.964594 cm² |
How to check the result
The matching numbers for volume and lateral area in this example are a coincidence; their units differ. Use radius rather than diameter, and use internal dimensions when estimating a pipe or tank’s capacity.
Frequently asked questions
What is lateral versus total surface area?
Lateral area is only the curved wall, 2πrh; total area adds the two circular bases.
Can I enter diameter instead of radius?
Yes. Choose diameter and the calculator converts it to radius internally.
What units are used for volume?
If dimensions are in centimeters, volume is cm³ and areas are cm².