Volume is the amount of space an object takes up. The standard unit of volume is metres cubed (m3
). When the volume being measured is smaller, cm3 Measuring the volume of solids
are used.
To calculate the volume of a regular solid (also known as a cuboid), multiply length by width by height.
EXAMPLE Question Find the volume in m3
of a regular cuboid with dimensions 3 m by 0.75 m by 1 m.
Solution volume = length × width × height volume = 3 m × 0.75 m × 1 m volume = 2.25 m3
3 m : Fig. 25.15
FIGURE IT OUT! 1. Find the volume in m3
1 m
0.75 m
of a regular cuboid with dimensions 23 cm by 14 cm by 75 cm.
2. Find the volume of a cube, in cm3 30 cm.
, if the lengths of the sides are 75 cm
) Fig. 25.16 23 cm Measuring the volume of liquids
A graduated cylinder is the piece of laboratory equipment used to measure the volume of a liquid. It has graduated lines and measurements along the side.
As it is filled, the top surface of the liquid shows the volume. The name of the curve on the top surface is called the meniscus. When reading volume using a graduated cylinder, always read the bottom of the meniscus at eye level to ensure an accurate reading.
40 30
14 cm
20
Reading the meniscus at eye level
10
) Fig. 25.17 Using a graduated cylinder to read volume