Volume

Volume is a fundamental concept in mathematics and physical sciences, particularly in geometry and physics. It is defined as the amount of three-dimensional space an object occupies. The standard unit of volume in the International System of Units (SI) is the cubic meter (m³).

Definition

In mathematics, volume is defined as the quantity of three-dimensional space enclosed by a closed surface. For example, the space that a substance (solid, liquid, gas, or plasma) or shape occupies or contains. Volume is often quantified numerically using the SI derived unit, the cubic meter.

Measurement

The volume of a container is generally understood to be the capacity of the container; i. e., the amount of fluid (gas or liquid) that the container could hold, rather than the amount of space the container itself displaces.

In the International System of Units (SI), volume is measured in cubic meters (m³). However, the liter (L) and the milliliter (mL) are also commonly used units for volume.

Volume Formulas

The formulas for the volume of various geometric shapes are well established. For example, the volume of a cube is the cube of the length of its side (s³), and the volume of a cylinder is the product of the base area (πr²) and the height (h), or πr²h.

Volume in Physics

In physics, volume plays a crucial role in understanding concepts such as density and pressure. The volume of an object can determine its buoyancy, or whether it will float or sink in another substance.

See Also

• Area
• Length
• Mass
• Density
• Pressure