A cylindrical can holds three equal-sized balls perfectly. Which is larger, the can's height or the can's circumference?

Answer 1

Let the ball's radius be R.
The can's height is 6R.
The can's circumference is 2 pi R.

2 pi = 6.283.. > 6

Therefore, _____

Answer 2

Great question, one of my favourites.

I used to bring a tennis-ball can into class and challenge my students to give me a solution and explanation verbally.

Thanks drwls for the reminder.