How can u apply formulas for volume of a cube and sphere to solve problems

1 answer

To solve problems involving the volume of a cube and a sphere, you'll need to understand the formulas for each shape and how to apply them in various scenarios.

Volume of a Cube

The formula for the volume \( V \) of a cube is given by:

\[ V = s^3 \]

where \( s \) is the length of a side of the cube.

Example Problem:

  • Problem: A cube has a side length of 4 cm. What is its volume?
  • Solution: \[ V = s^3 = 4^3 = 64 \text{ cm}^3 \]

Volume of a Sphere

The formula for the volume \( V \) of a sphere is given by:

\[ V = \frac{4}{3} \pi r^3 \]

where \( r \) is the radius of the sphere.

Example Problem:

  • Problem: A sphere has a radius of 5 cm. What is its volume?
  • Solution: \[ V = \frac{4}{3} \pi (5)^3 = \frac{4}{3} \pi \times 125 \approx 523.6 \text{ cm}^3 \]

Applying the Formulas in Real-World Problems

  1. Finding Volume for Different Dimensions:

    • If a cube's side length changes, you can easily recalculate using the same formula.
    • Example: If the side length changes to 10 cm: \[ V = 10^3 = 1000 \text{ cm}^3 \]
  2. Comparing Volumes:

    • You can use these volume formulas to compare different shapes.
    • Example: Compare the volume of a cube with a side of 4 cm and a sphere with a radius of 3 cm.
      • Cube Volume: \[ V_{\text{cube}} = 4^3 = 64 \text{ cm}^3 \]
      • Sphere Volume: \[ V_{\text{sphere}} = \frac{4}{3} \pi (3)^3 = \frac{4}{3} \pi \times 27 \approx 113.1 \text{ cm}^3 \]
      • Conclusion: The volume of the cube is less than that of the sphere.
  3. Word Problems:

    • Real-world scenarios may involve finding the volume for various practical applications, such as how much water can fit in a container shaped like a cube or a sphere.
    • Example: A tank in the shape of a cube can hold water. If the tank has a side of 2 m, how much water can it hold?
      • Volume of water: \[ V = 2^3 = 8 \text{ m}^3 \]

Using these formulas and procedures, you can tackle a wide range of problems related to cubes and spheres.