Cylinder Surface Area Calculator
SA = 2πr² + 2πrh. Two circular ends + lateral wrap.
Result
General calculation reads
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How to use this calculator
- Enter radius and height.
- Read closed + open-top + lateral surface areas.
About this calculator
A cylinder has two circular ends (each πr², total 2πr²) and a lateral surface (rectangle when unrolled, 2πr × h = 2πrh). For an open container (top removed): lateral + 1 end. For a tube (both ends open): just 2πrh. The optimal cylinder for minimum SA at given volume has h = 2r (height = diameter) — which is why most pop cans approximate this aspect ratio.
Frequently asked
Why 2πr × h for lateral?+
Optimal ratio for minimum SA?+
Pipe surface area?+
Painting a cylinder?+
Why did Coca-Cola pick this shape?+
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