Choose a shape and known measurements to calculate base area. Related dimensions appear when they can be determined. An optional positive height gives prism or cylinder volume; you can also find base area from a solidโ€™s volume and perpendicular height.

Enter a radius to find the circular base area.

Unit changes convert the entered quantity.

Height and output units

Blank omits volume. If entered, use a positive perpendicular height; volume assumes a constant cross-section.

Base Area Formula

The following formula and two examples apply to a circular base. Other shapes use the formula shown in the calculatorโ€™s Calculation details.

BA = pi ร— (D / 2)ยฒ
  • Where BA is the Base Area
  • D is the diameter of the cylinder 

For a circular base, multiply pi by the diameter squared divided by 4. Choose Circle โ€” diameter in the calculator. Area is measured in square units.

How to Calculate Base Area?

The following example problems outline how to calculate Base Area.

Example Problem #1:

  1. First, determine the diameter of the cylinder.
    • The diameter of the cylinder is given as 4 inches.
  2. Finally, calculate the Base Area using the equation above: 

BA = pi*(D/2)^2

The values provided above are inserted into the equation below and computed.

BA = pi*(4/2)^2 โ‰ˆ 12.566 square inches

Example Problem #2: 

For this problem, the variables required are provided below:

diameter of the cylinder = 6 inches

Test your knowledge using the equation and check your answer with the calculator. The area is approximately 28.274 square inches.

BA = pi*(D/2)^2 = ?