How it works
The two hemispheres together contribute one sphere’s volume and curved area. Enter only the straight section as h; do not enter the full tip-to-tip length there. For r = 1 and h = 3, total length is 5, volume is 13π/3 and outside area is 10π. All lengths must use one unit.
Inputs and units
| Input | Example value | What to enter |
|---|---|---|
| Shared radius | 2 | Enter a numeric value. Distance from the centre to the edge; half the diameter. Must be greater than zero. |
| Straight cylinder length | 5 | Enter a numeric value. Use a non-negative value. |
Worked example
Show example inputs and results
This example is generated by the same calculation engine using the starting values in the form. Your own inputs produce your own result.
- Shared radius
- 2
- Straight cylinder length
- 5
Complete example results
- Capsule volume
- 96.34217471
- Outside surface area
- 113.09733553
- Total tip-to-tip length
- 9
Reading the result
Enter lengths in the same unit. Area uses the square of that unit and volume its cube. Height is perpendicular to the base; use a sloping side only when the input explicitly asks for it.
Questions and answers
Can I use the example values for my own calculation?
The example values illustrate the calculation. Replace every input with your own information, especially dates, rates and the selected operation.
Are the hidden circular joining faces included?
No. The surface result counts only the outside curved surface of the joined solid. At a straight section length of zero, the model reduces to a sphere.
Why are some results rounded?
Results display up to 8 decimal places. Calculations use the unrounded values; very small values use scientific notation. JavaScript floating-point arithmetic can introduce tiny rounding differences.
Are my inputs sent to a server?
The calculator processes inputs in your browser. Its code does not send your values to a server.
Method sources: mathworld.wolfram.com