Physics Wallah

Mensuration Formula: Definition, 2D Shapes, 3D Shapes

Mensuration Formula: Mensuration can be defined as the process of quantification through measurement. In our three-dimensional world, the concept of measurement holds a significant place in both primary and secondary school mathematics, as well as in our daily lives. The skill of measuring extends to both 3D and 2D shapes.
authorImageManoj Kumar11 Sept, 2023
Share

Share

Mensuration Formula

Mensuration Formula: Mensuration, a mathematical discipline, delves into the measurement aspects of both 2D and 3D shapes. It encompasses dimensions such as length, volume, surface area, and shape. In essence, mensuration involves quantification through the utilization of algebraic equations and mathematical formulas. To gain a deeper comprehension of this concept, we will delve into its principles, explore relevant formulas, and work through illustrative examples.

What is Mensuration?

Mensuration can be defined as the process of quantification through measurement. In our three-dimensional world, the concept of measurement holds a significant place in both primary and secondary school mathematics, as well as in our daily lives. The skill of measuring extends to both 3D and 2D shapes. Objects or quantities are subject to measurement using either conventional or unconventional units. For instance, a non-standard unit for measuring length could be the span of a hand. An engaging activity involves having children measure object lengths using their handspans, allowing them to discern the inherent variability in non-standard measurements. This underscores the necessity of standard units of measurement. Parameters such as length, weight, and capacity are now quantified using units like kilometer, meter, kilogram, gram, liter, milliliter, and others, marking a departure from less precise measurement methods.

Also Check - Polynomials Formula

3D Shapes Definition

A three-dimensional figure, commonly referred to as a 3D shape, is characterized by its faces, edges, and vertices. These shapes possess a surface area calculated by summing the areas of their constituent faces, while their volume corresponds to the extent of space they occupy. Illustrative instances of 3D shapes encompass the cube, cuboid, cone, and cylinder. Real-world manifestations of these shapes include objects such as a book, a birthday hat, and a soda can.

Also Check  - Introduction to Euclid Formula

2D Shapes Definition

Within the realm of geometry, 2D shapes are delineated as planar entities devoid of thickness, possessing solely two dimensions: length and width. These shapes lie completely flat and lack the characteristic of depth. Measurement of 2D shapes is limited to these two dimensions alone .

Download PDF Mensuration Formula

Also Check - Sequence and Series Formula

Important Mensuration Terms

Terms Definition
Area Area represents the extent of space encompassed by a two-dimensional shape. This measure is denoted in terms of square units.
Perimeter Perimeter denotes the aggregate distance along the outline of a shape or the length of its enclosed boundary. This measurement is typically expressed in linear units.
Volume Volume signifies the quantity of space taken up by a three-dimensional figure. This measurement is articulated in terms of cubic meters.
Surface Area Surface Area embodies the entirety of space covered by the exterior surfaces of a three-dimensional object. This measurement is categorized into two distinct types: Curved or Lateral Surface Area, and Total Surface Area.
Also Check - Line and Angles Formula

Mensuration Formulas

Mensuration encompasses a range of formulas applicable to both three-dimensional (3D) and two-dimensional (2D) shapes. While surface area and volume calculations are among the most frequently used formulas, it's crucial to familiarize ourselves with the complete set of formulas for these shapes.

3D Shape Formulas

3D Shape Formulas
Sphere Diameter = 2 × r; (where 'r' is the radius) Surface Area = 4πr 2 Volume = (4/3)πr 3
Cylinder Total Surface Area = 2πr(h+r); (where 'r' is the radius and 'h' is the height of the cylinder) Volume = πr 2 h
Cone Curved Surface Area = πrl; (where 'l' is the slant height and l = √(h 2 + r 2 )) Total Surface Area = πr(l + r) Volume = (1/3) πr 2 h
Cube Lateral Surface Area = 4a 2 ; (where 'a' is the side length of the cube) Total Surface Area = 6a 2 Volume = a 3
Cuboid Lateral Surface Area = 2h(l + w); (where 'h' is the height, 'l' is the length and 'w' is the width) Total Surface Area = 2 (lw + wh + lh) Volume = (l × w × h)
Prism Surface Area = [(2 × Base Area) + (Perimeter × Height)] Volume = (Base Area × Height)
Pyramid Surface Area = Base Area + (1/2 × Perimeter × Slant Height) Volume = [(1/3) × Base Area × Altitude]
Also Check - Factorization Formula

2D Shape Formulas

2D Shape Area Formula Perimeter Formula
Circle A = π × r 2 , where 'r' is the radius of the circle and 'π' is a constant whose value is taken as 22/7 or 3.14 Circumference (Perimeter) = 2πr
Triangle Area = ½ (Base × height) Perimeter = Sum of the three sides
Square Area = Side 2 Perimeter = 4 × side
Rectangle Area = Length × Width Perimeter = 2 (Length + Width)

Uses of Mensuration

Mensuration holds significant relevance due to its practical utility across various real-world contexts. The following examples highlight its applicability:

  • Quantifying agricultural land extents and determining floor areas for real estate transactions.
  • Gauging volumes for packaging liquids, solids, and consumable goods like milk.
  • Calculating surface areas for estimating paint requirements in construction.
  • Utilizing volumes and heights to monitor water levels in rivers and lakes.
  • Strategically optimizing packaging solutions, such as tetra packs, for cost-efficient milk storage.

In these scenarios, mensuration emerges as a crucial tool for accurate measurement and efficient decision-making.

Important Notes

Mensuration and measurement often go hand in hand, particularly when non-standard units are employed to measure objects. The comprehension of object measurement is aided by the use of solid shapes and nets. Solid shapes facilitate the understanding of fundamental aspects like faces, edges, and vertices. Conversely, nets assist in visualizing the intricate structure of three-dimensional shapes.

Mensuration Formula FAQs

What are the formulas for the geometric properties of a cuboid?

Below, you'll find the geometry formulas specific to a cuboid: Surface Area of a Cuboid, A = 2(lb + bh + hl) Volume of a Cuboid, V = lbh Space Diagonal of a Cuboid, d = √(l² + b² + h²) In this context: l stands for length

What are the Applications of Geometry Formulas?

Geometry formulas serve as valuable tools for calculating the perimeter, area, volume, and surface areas of both 2D and 3D geometric shapes. In our everyday experiences, we encounter a multitude of objects that possess resemblances to various geometric figures. These formulas enable us to determine the areas and volumes of these geometric entities in practical applications.

What is the formula of the circle?

The geometry formulas of a circle are listed below: Circumference = 2πr Area = πr2 Diameter = 2r Where, r = radius of a circle

What are the Geometry Formulas of a Rectangle?

The geometry formulas of a rectangle are listed below: Perimeter of a rectangle = 2(l + w) Area of rectangle = lw Diagonal of a rectangle, d = √(l2 + w2)
Join 15 Million students on the app today!
Point IconLive & recorded classes available at ease
Point IconDashboard for progress tracking
Point IconMillions of practice questions at your fingertips
Download ButtonDownload Button
Banner Image
Banner Image
Free Learning Resources
Know about Physics Wallah
Physics Wallah is an Indian edtech platform that provides accessible & comprehensive learning experiences to students from Class 6th to postgraduate level. We also provide extensive NCERT solutions, sample paper, NEET, JEE Mains, BITSAT previous year papers & more such resources to students. Physics Wallah also caters to over 3.5 million registered students and over 78 lakh+ Youtube subscribers with 4.8 rating on its app.
We Stand Out because
We provide students with intensive courses with India’s qualified & experienced faculties & mentors. PW strives to make the learning experience comprehensive and accessible for students of all sections of society. We believe in empowering every single student who couldn't dream of a good career in engineering and medical field earlier.
Our Key Focus Areas
Physics Wallah's main focus is to make the learning experience as economical as possible for all students. With our affordable courses like Lakshya, Udaan and Arjuna and many others, we have been able to provide a platform for lakhs of aspirants. From providing Chemistry, Maths, Physics formula to giving e-books of eminent authors like RD Sharma, RS Aggarwal and Lakhmir Singh, PW focuses on every single student's need for preparation.
What Makes Us Different
Physics Wallah strives to develop a comprehensive pedagogical structure for students, where they get a state-of-the-art learning experience with study material and resources. Apart from catering students preparing for JEE Mains and NEET, PW also provides study material for each state board like Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, and others

Copyright © 2025 Physicswallah Limited All rights reserved.