How to Calculate the Volume of a Sphere with a Diameter of 36 cm: A Step-by-Step Guide

How to Calculate the Volume of a Sphere with a Diameter of 36 cm: A Step-by-Step Guide

Introduction

The volume of a sphere is an important concept in geometry, with applications in various fields such as physics, engineering, and everyday problem-solving. In this article, we'll explore how to calculate the volume of a sphere when given its diameter of 36 cm. We'll break down the process step by step, including the formulas used and specific calculations.

Understanding the Formula for the Volume of a Sphere

The volume V of a sphere is given by the formula:

V (frac{4}{3}) π r3

Where:

V is the volume of the sphere π (pi) is approximately 3.14159 (often rounded to 3.14 for simplicity) r is the radius of the sphere

Step-by-Step Calculation

Step 1: Determine the Radius

The radius r is half of the diameter. Given a diameter of 36 cm, we can calculate the radius:

r (frac{36;{rm{cm}}}{2}) 18;{rm{cm}}

Step 2: Substitute the Radius into the Formula

Now that we have the radius, we can substitute it into the volume formula:

V (frac{4}{3}) π (18;{rm{cm}})^3

Step 3: Calculate the Cubed Radius

First, calculate the cube of the radius:

(18;{rm{cm}})^3 5832;{rm{cm}}^3

Step 4: Substitute the Cubed Radius into the Formula

Now substitute this value back into the volume formula:

V (frac{4}{3}) π 5832;{rm{cm}}^3

Step 5: Calculate the Volume

Assuming π is approximately 3.14:

V (frac{4}{3} times 5832 times 3.14;{rm{cm}}^3

V ≈ 7764 times 3.14;{rm{cm}}^3

V ≈ 24360.76;{rm{cm}}^3

Verification and Additional Insights

The volume calculated is approximately 24360.76 cm3. It's important to note that this is an approximation, as π is a transcendental number and cannot be expressed exactly as a simple fraction of integers.

For a more precise calculation, you can use the value of π provided by your calculator or a mathematical software tool. However, for most practical purposes, the approximation is sufficient.

Additional Calculations and Considerations

Another way to approach the problem is to use the diameter directly in the formula:

V (frac{4}{3}) π (frac{36}{2})^3 (frac{4}{3}) π 18^3 (frac{4}{3}) π 5832;{rm{cm}}^3

This yields the same result as the previous method.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the volume of a sphere with a diameter of 36 cm is approximately 24360.76 cm3. This method and approach can be applied to any spheres with known diameters or radii. Understanding these calculations is crucial for various applications in science, engineering, and everyday problem-solving.

Key Points to Remember

The formula for the volume of a sphere is V (frac{4}{3}) π r3 The radius is half of the diameter. Substitute the radius into the formula and calculate the volume using π ≈ 3.14. Ensure all units are consistent throughout the calculation.