Calculating Volume of Composite Prisms

In this video, Mr. J explains how to calculate the volume of composite rectangular prisms. He begins by introducing the formula for volume: length times width times height. The video then demonstrates the process of dividing a composite rectangular prism into two simpler prisms, calculating the volume of each, and summing them to find the total volume. Mr. J provides a detailed walkthrough for two examples, highlighting common mistakes and alternative methods for dividing the prisms. The video concludes with a summary of the steps involved in calculating the volume of composite rectangular prisms.

What is the formula used to calculate the volume of a rectangular prism?

• Width x Height

• Length + Width + Height

• Length x Width x Height

• Length x Width

When splitting a composite rectangular prism, what is the first step?

• Find the surface area

• Calculate the total volume directly

• Draw a line to separate it into two prisms

• Measure the height of the prism

In the first example, what is the volume of part A?

• 104 cubic inches

• 28 cubic inches

• 56 cubic inches

• 48 cubic inches

What is a common mistake when measuring dimensions for volume calculation?

• Using the same dimension twice

• Using the width instead of the height

• Using the height instead of the width

• Using the total length instead of the part length

How can composite prisms be split differently?

• By using only one dimension

• By ignoring the height

• By splitting them into top and bottom prisms

• By cutting them into three parts

In the second example, what is the height of part A?

• 3 feet

• 7 feet

• 8 feet

• 5 feet

What is the total volume of the composite prism in the second example?

• 124 cubic feet

• 104 cubic feet

• 84 cubic feet

• 40 cubic feet

Why is it important to choose the correct dimensions when calculating volume?

• To avoid using unnecessary numbers

• To ensure the surface area is correct

• To get the correct total volume

• To make the calculation easier

What should you do if you run out of space while solving a problem?

• Use a new sheet of paper

• Erase and start over

• Skip the problem

• Write the answer inside the prism

What is the final step in solving for the volume of a composite prism?

• Divide the total volume by two

• Multiply the volumes of the separate prisms

• Add the volumes of the separate prisms

• Subtract the smaller volume from the larger one