MathArea and VolumeMedium frequency
SAT Math: Find the volume of a cone, sphere, or pyramid
16+ practice questions in Praczo
What you need to know
The concept, explained
- 1
Cone: V = (1/3)πr²h. Pyramid: V = (1/3) · (base area) · h. Both have the factor 1/3 because they taper to a point.
- 2
Sphere: V = (4/3)πr³. This formula is provided on the SAT reference sheet — you don't need to memorize it.
- 3
Always use the radius (not the diameter) in V = (1/3)πr²h. If you're given diameter, divide by 2 first.
- 4
Match units carefully: if radius is in cm and height is in m, convert to the same unit before computing.
Common mistakes
- ✗ Forgetting the 1/3 factor in cone and pyramid formulas, giving a volume three times too large.
- ✗ Using diameter where radius is required.
Try a sample question
SAT-style practice
A cone has radius 6 cm and height 9 cm. What is its volume in terms of π?
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