Cylinder Volume
Calculate the volume of a right circular cylinder using radius and height. Get instant results with formula breakdown in cubic units for any geometry problem.
About This Calculator
The Cylinder Volume Calculator computes the volume of a right circular cylinder using the formula V = pir^2h, where r is the radius of the circular base and h is the height. Enter the radius and height in any consistent unit system to get the volume in cubic units instantly.
This tool is ideal for students learning geometry formulas, engineers calculating tank or pipe capacities, DIY enthusiasts estimating material volumes, and professionals in construction, manufacturing, and logistics who need quick cylinder volume calculations.
Regional notes: In the US, measurements are typically in inches or feet (volume in cubic inches or cubic feet). In the UK and India, metric units (cm, m) are standard (volume in cm^3, m^3). Use our dedicated Liters and Gallons calculators for volume-in-fluid-unit conversions.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the formula for cylinder volume?
The formula for the volume of a right circular cylinder is V = pir^2h, where r is the radius of the circular base and h is the height. Multiply the area of the circular base (pir^2) by the height to get the volume.
What units does the cylinder volume result use?
The result uses cubic versions of whatever units you enter. If you enter radius and height in meters, volume is in cubic meters (m^3). For centimeters, volume is in cubic centimeters (cm^3). Always use the same unit for both inputs.
Can I calculate cylinder volume in liters or gallons?
This calculator returns volume in cubic units. To convert to liters, multiply cubic decimeters (1 L = 1 dm^3). For US gallons, multiply cubic feet by 7.48052 or cubic inches by 0.004329. Use our Cylinder Volume Liters or Cylinder Volume Gallons calculators for direct conversions.
Is this cylinder volume calculator free?
Yes, all calculators on Calculy are completely free to use with no limits or registration required.
What is a right circular cylinder?
A right circular cylinder is a 3D geometric shape with two parallel circular bases of equal size connected by a curved surface at right angles. Common examples include cans, pipes, drums, and columns.
How do I find the volume if I only know the diameter?
If you know the diameter, divide it by 2 to get the radius, then use the formula V = pir^2h. For example, a cylinder with diameter 10 cm and height 20 cm has radius 5 cm and volume V = pi x 25 x 20 ≈ 1570.8 cm^3.
Why must radius and height be positive values?
Radius and height represent physical dimensions of a real object and must be positive numbers. Zero or negative values are not physically meaningful for a cylinder's geometry.