How to Calculate the Volume of a Triangular Prism

A triangular prism is a three-dimensional solid with a base, 9 edges, 5 faces and 6 vertices. A triangular prism is basically half of a rectangular prism, composed of 3 rectangles and 2 triangles on each end. You measure the volume of a triangular solid in cubic units of measurement. You can calculate the volume of a triangular prism using these few short and simple steps.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Things You’ll Need:

• Formula for volume of a triangular prism, V = (b)(h)(l)/2
• Calculator (if needed)
• Triangular prism

1. Choose your unit of measurement.
2. Measure the length (l) of the prism.
3. Measure the base (b) of the prism, sometimes called the width. This will be perpendicular to the height of the prism.
4. Measure the height (h) of the prism. Height is the altitude of the triangle and is perpendicular to the base.
5. Multiply the 3 dimensions together. It does not matter the order in which you multiply the numbers.
6. Divide that answer by 2.
7. Write you answer in the proper cubic unit of measurement.

Tips & Warnings

• Make sure you use the same unit of measurement for each dimension.
• To find the volume of a complex shape, break it down into smaller individual shapes. Determine the volume of smaller shapes, and then combine them (by adding) to find the volume of the entire shape.