When to use this calculator
Find the total surface area of a closed right circular cylinder. Includes both circular ends and the curved side.
Explore the volume & surface area calculators for other questions in this topic. For a related calculation, use the Cylinder Volume Calculator: Calculate a right circular cylinder’s volume from radius and height.
PUTTING IT INTO PRACTICE
Cylinder Surface Area: a worked example
The values below are an illustrative example, not a recommendation. Replace them with measurements or assumptions that match your question.
| Input | Example value |
|---|---|
| Radius | 3 |
| Height | 10 |
| Result | 245.044227 square units |
- Check the input labels and enter the example values above.
- Apply the relationship: Surface area = 2πr(r + h).
- The result is 245.044227 square units, rounded for display.
How to interpret your result
Includes both circular ends and the curved side.
Volume and surface area have different units and answer different questions. Use internal dimensions for capacity. A closed-solid surface area includes bases and lids unless the calculator explicitly describes an open shape.
Frequently asked questions
Should I use internal or outside measurements?
Use internal measurements for capacity and outside measurements for covering the exterior. Match the formula to the part being measured.
How do I use the cylinder surface area calculator?
Enter radius, height. The result updates automatically. Use the units shown beside each input; the example values illustrate the method.
Which formula does this calculator use?
Surface area = 2πr(r + h).
What should I check before using the result?
Includes both circular ends and the curved side.
How are results rounded?
Scalar numbers display up to six decimal places, with scientific notation for very large or small values. Text, fraction, date and schedule outputs use the format described on the tool. Intermediate calculations use JavaScript floating-point arithmetic. Keep sensible precision for your measurements.
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