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Interactive resource

Cylinder πr²h vs Cone (1/3)πr²h

Geometry. 3D comparison: with the same base and height, a cone is one-third of a cylinder. Free interactive GeoGebra resource — adjust parameters in the…

  • Solid geometry
  • Volume

Overview

Cylinder volume is base × height; cones add the factor 1/3. Three equal cones fill one cylinder.

Explanation

Cylinder volume = base area × height = πr²h.
Cone volume = (1/3)×base×height = (1/3)πr²h.
Three cones fill one cylinder when they share the same base and height.

How to use

  1. Toggle cylinder vs cone.
  2. Adjust radius and height.
  3. Compare volume readouts.
  4. Remember the 1/3 relationship.

Check the factor

Fix r and h, toggle shapes — is the cylinder about three times the cone?

Knowledge points

  • Solid geometry
  • Volume

FAQ

Must students know the derivation?

Build the 1/3 intuition first; derive or experiment later.

Is this tool free?

Yes. It runs in the browser with no install.

Good for class demos?

Yes — project it and ask what changes when you drag a parameter.

How do I write the formula afterward?

Open the equation editor or symbol sheet and copy a clean expression.

Try the interactive