103 LearnersLast updated on June 25th, 2025
Surface Area Of A Rectangular Prism Calculator
Calculators are reliable tools for solving simple mathematical problems and advanced calculations like geometry. Whether you’re painting, wrapping gifts, or designing a box, calculators will make your life easy. In this topic, we are going to talk about surface area of a rectangular prism calculators.
What is Surface Area Of A Rectangular Prism Calculator?
A surface area of a rectangular prism calculator is a tool to figure out the total surface area of a rectangular prism. The calculator helps to quickly and easily compute the surface area by using the dimensions of the prism, saving time and effort.
How to Use the Surface Area Of A Rectangular Prism Calculator?
Given below is a step-by-step process on how to use the calculator:
Step 1: Enter the dimensions: Input the length, width, and height of the prism into the given fields.
Step 2: Click on calculate: Click on the calculate button to compute the surface area and get the result.
Step 3: View the result: The calculator will display the result instantly.
How to Calculate the Surface Area of a Rectangular Prism?
To calculate the surface area of a rectangular prism, there is a straightforward formula that the calculator uses.
A rectangular prism has six faces, and its surface area can be calculated by adding the areas of all these faces.
Surface Area = 2lw + 2lh + 2wh
Where:
l = length
w = width
h = height
This formula calculates the total surface area by considering each pair of opposite faces.
Tips and Tricks for Using the Surface Area Of A Rectangular Prism Calculator
When we use a surface area calculator, there are a few tips and tricks that can help make the process easier and more accurate:
- Ensure all measurements are in the same units to avoid calculation errors.
- Double-check the dimensions inputted to prevent mistakes.
- For wrapping or painting, consider any overlaps or areas not covered by the surface area calculation.
Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them When Using the Surface Area Of A Rectangular Prism Calculator
We may think that when using a calculator, mistakes will not happen. But it is possible for users to make mistakes when using a calculator.
Mistake 1
Entering incorrect dimensions
Always double-check the numbers you input. Incorrect dimensions can lead to a completely wrong calculation of the surface area.
Mistake 2
Mixing up length, width, and height
Make sure to input the correct dimension in each field. Confusing these can lead to errors in the calculated surface area.
Mistake 3
Using inconsistent units
Ensure that all dimensions are in the same unit (e.g., all in meters or all in inches). Mixing units can cause incorrect results.
Mistake 4
Relying solely on the calculator without understanding the formula
Understanding the formula helps in verifying the results. Ensure that the logic behind the calculation is clear to avoid errors.
Mistake 5
Ignoring significant figures or decimal places
Be mindful of significant figures or decimal places, especially in precise measurements, to ensure the accuracy of the result.
Surface Area Of A Rectangular Prism Calculator Examples
Problem 1
What is the surface area of a rectangular prism with dimensions 5 cm by 3 cm by 2 cm?
Use the formula:
Surface Area = 2lw + 2lh + 2wh
Surface Area = 2(5)(3) + 2(5)(2) + 2(3)(2) = 30 + 20 + 12 = 62 cm²
Explanation
By applying the formula, we calculate each part separately and then sum them up to get the total surface area.
Problem 2
A rectangular box has dimensions 10 inches by 7 inches by 4 inches. Find the surface area.
Use the formula:
Surface Area = 2lw + 2lh + 2wh
Surface Area = 2(10)(7) + 2(10)(4) + 2(7)(4) = 140 + 80 + 56 = 276 in²
Explanation
After applying the formula, we sum up the calculated areas of all faces to get the total surface area.
Problem 3
Calculate the surface area of a rectangular prism with a length of 8 m, a width of 5 m, and a height of 3 m.
Use the formula:
Surface Area = 2lw + 2lh + 2wh
Surface Area = 2(8)(5) + 2(8)(3) + 2(5)(3) = 80 + 48 + 30 = 158 m²
Explanation
By substituting the given dimensions into the formula, we find the total surface area of the prism.
Problem 4
Find the surface area of a rectangular prism with sides measuring 12 cm, 9 cm, and 6 cm.
Use the formula:
Surface Area = 2lw + 2lh + 2wh
Surface Area = 2(12)(9) + 2(12)(6) + 2(9)(6) = 216 + 144 + 108 = 468 cm²
Explanation
The formula calculates each term separately and aggregates them for the overall surface area.
Problem 5
How much surface area does a rectangular prism with dimensions 15 ft by 10 ft by 8 ft have?
Use the formula:
Surface Area = 2lw + 2lh + 2wh
Surface Area = 2(15)(10) + 2(15)(8) + 2(10)(8) = 300 + 240 + 160 = 700 ft²
Explanation
By applying the formula to the given dimensions, we determine the surface area of the prism.
FAQs on Using the Surface Area Of A Rectangular Prism Calculator
1.How do you calculate the surface area of a rectangular prism?
2.What units should be used for calculating surface area?
3.How is the surface area formula derived?
4.Can this calculator be used for any rectangular prism?
5.Is the surface area calculator accurate?
Glossary of Terms for the Surface Area Of A Rectangular Prism Calculator
- Surface Area: The total area covered by the surface of a 3D object.
- Rectangular Prism: A three-dimensional shape with six rectangular faces.
- Dimensions: Measurements that determine the size of an object, typically length, width, and height for a prism.
- Units: Standard quantities used to specify measurements, such as meters (m), centimeters (cm), or inches (in).
- Calculation: The process of using mathematical operations to determine a numerical result.
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Seyed Ali Fathima S
About the Author
Seyed Ali Fathima S a math expert with nearly 5 years of experience as a math teacher. From an engineer to a math teacher, shows her passion for math and teaching. She is a calculator queen, who loves tables and she turns tables to puzzles and songs.
Fun Fact
: She has songs for each table which helps her to remember the tables
