EDEXCEL GCSE FOUNDATION MATHS - What is the Volume of a Cuboid or Prism

Edexcel GCSE Foundation Maths: Volume of a Cuboid and Prism

Understanding Volume

Volume measures the amount of space a three-dimensional object occupies. It is measured in cubic units (e.g., cm³, m³).

Finding the Volume of a Cuboid

A cuboid is a rectangular box with six rectangular faces.

Formula:

Volume of a cuboid = length × width × height

Example:

A cuboid has a length of 5 cm, a width of 3 cm, and a height of 4 cm.

Volume = 5 cm × 3 cm × 4 cm = 60 cm³

Finding the Volume of a Prism

A prism is a three-dimensional shape with two identical parallel faces (called bases) and rectangular faces connecting them.

Formula:

Volume of a prism = area of the base × height

Example:

A triangular prism has a base with an area of 10 cm² and a height of 7 cm.

Volume = 10 cm² × 7 cm = 70 cm³

Tips for Calculating Volume

• Units: Always include the correct units (e.g., cm³) in your answer.
• Diagram: Draw a diagram of the shape if needed to help visualize the dimensions.
• Area of the Base: For prisms, remember to calculate the area of the base first.
• Formula Sheet: Use the formula sheet provided in your exam to ensure you are using the correct formulas.

Practice Questions

1. A cuboid has a length of 8 cm, a width of 2 cm, and a height of 5 cm. Calculate its volume.
2. A rectangular prism has a base with an area of 12 m² and a height of 4 m. Calculate its volume.
3. A triangular prism has a base with sides of 3 cm, 4 cm, and 5 cm. The prism has a height of 6 cm. Calculate its volume.

Answers:

1. 80 cm³
2. 48 m³
3. 36 cm³