Capsule Volume Calculator

| Added in Math & Numbers

A capsule is a three-dimensional geometric shape consisting of a cylinder with hemispherical ends. This calculator determines the volume of a capsule using the radius and the length of the cylindrical portion.

Formula

The volume of a capsule is calculated as:

[V_c = \pi r^2 \left(\frac{4}{3}r + h\right)]

Where:

  • r is the radius of the capsule (both cylinder and hemispheres)
  • h is the length of the cylindrical side (excluding the hemispherical ends)
  • Ο€ (pi) β‰ˆ 3.14159

This formula combines:

  • Cylinder volume: Ο€rΒ²h
  • Sphere volume: (4/3)Ο€rΒ³

Calculation Example

For a capsule with radius 25 inches and cylindrical side length 40 inches:

Step 1: Identify the values

  • r = 25 inches
  • h = 40 inches

Step 2: Calculate the volume
[V_c = \pi \times 25^2 \times \left(\frac{4}{3} \times 25 + 40\right)]

[V_c = \pi \times 625 \times (33.33 + 40)]

[V_c = \pi \times 625 \times 73.33]

[V_c \approx 143,989.66 \text{ cubic inches}]

Volume Components

A capsule's volume consists of:

Component Formula Contribution
Cylindrical portion Ο€rΒ²h Variable based on length
Two hemispheres (one sphere) (4/3)Ο€rΒ³ Fixed for given radius
Total capsule Ο€rΒ²((4/3)r + h) Combined volume

Applications

  • Pharmaceuticals: Designing pill and capsule medications
  • Engineering: Fuel tanks, pressure vessels, and storage containers
  • Architecture: Rounded structures and decorative elements
  • Manufacturing: Product packaging and container design
  • Marine Engineering: Submarine hull sections and buoyancy calculations

Frequently Asked Questions

A capsule is a three-dimensional shape consisting of a cylinder with hemispherical ends. It is also known as a spherocylinder or stadium of revolution.

The volume formula is V = Ο€rΒ²((4/3)r + h), where r is the radius and h is the cylindrical side length. This combines the volume of the cylinder (Ο€rΒ²h) and the sphere (4/3Ο€rΒ³).

Capsule volume is used in pharmaceutical pill design, fuel tank engineering, pressure vessel design, and architectural elements with rounded ends.

Yes, this calculator allows you to select different units for radius and side length. The result will be in cubic inches or cubic centimeters based on your radius unit selection.