Cylinder Calculator

GEOMETRY

Find the volume and surface areas of a cylinder. Enter the radius and height.

Volume
— cu units
Base area times height.

Usage Tip

Unroll the side of a cylinder and it is a rectangle: height by the circumference (2πr).

THE MATH
volume = π × radius² × height
total surface = 2πr² + 2πr×height
A cylinder is a circle extruded straight up by its height.
Its volume is the base area times the height; the curved side unrolls into a rectangle.
Total surface area includes both circular bases and the curved side.
Lateral area is just the curved side.
Volume is base area times height.
Practical Notes

A cylinder is a circular base extended straight up to a height. Its volume is the base area times the height, or pi times the radius squared times the height. The lateral surface, the curved side, equals the circumference times the height, and the total surface area adds the two circular ends.

Because the radius is squared in the volume formula, small errors in measuring the radius matter more than errors in the height. Doubling the radius quadruples the volume, while doubling the height only doubles it. Use the inside radius when working out how much a tank, pipe, or can can hold, and the outside radius when you need material or paint for the outer surface.

Spotted an error or have a suggestion for this calculator? Let us know →
Scroll to Top

The calculators and tools on Formula Factory are provided for general guidance and informational purposes only. Results are estimates based on standard formulas and the values you enter — they do not constitute professional engineering, electrical, or architectural advice. Always verify calculations with a qualified professional before making decisions for any safety-critical, code-compliance, or commercial application. Formula Factory makes no representations or warranties as to the accuracy or completeness of any result, and accepts no liability for errors, omissions, or any outcomes arising from reliance on this information.