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Capacity of a Container

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Capacity of a Container

Capacity means how much a container can hold. In geometry, these problems usually ask for the volume of the container, then express the result in a capacity unit if needed.

1) Identify the shape

Look at the container’s form. It may be a box, cylinder, or another familiar solid. The shape determines which volume rule to use.

2) Measure the needed dimensions

Write down the given lengths, such as length, width, height, radius, or diameter. Be careful with units. If the measurements are in different units, convert them before calculating.

3) Calculate the volume

Use the correct formula for the shape. Multiply the dimensions as required, then simplify carefully.

4) Convert if necessary

If the problem asks for capacity in liters, milliliters, cubic centimeters, or another unit, convert the volume to the requested unit. Remember that capacity and volume are closely related, but the answer must match the unit asked for.

5) Simplify the final answer

Leave the result in its simplest exact form. If fractions, radicals, or decimal expressions appear, reduce them if possible.

Check your work

Make sure the units are correct, the formula matches the shape, and the answer is reasonable for the container’s size. A very small container should not have an unusually large capacity, and vice versa.

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