Saxon Math Course 3 Practice Exam - Prep, Study Guide & Resources

The formula for finding the volume of a cylinder is derived from the general concept of volume, where V represents volume, B represents the area of the base, and h represents the height of the cylinder. A cylinder has a circular base, and the area of a circle is calculated using the formula B = πr², where r is the radius of the circle.

To find the volume of the cylinder, you would multiply the area of the base (πr²) by the height (h) of the cylinder. Thus, the full volume formula becomes V = πr²h. This calculation effectively measures how much space is enclosed within the cylinder.

Other formulas presented, such as B = Bh or V = 1/3Bh, typically relate to the volume of other shapes, like prisms or pyramids, which is why they would not apply to a cylinder. The specific use of π in the correct answer emphasizes the circular nature of the cylinder's base, making it the appropriate formula for this shape.