5111775
Two students build different solids from unit cubes with a volume of \(1\,\text{cm}^3\) each.
Lisa builds a three-level stair-step solid. The bottom level contains \(6\) cubes, the middle level contains \(4\) cubes, and the top level contains \(2\) cubes.
Max builds a rectangular prism with dimensions \(3\,\text{cm}\), \(2\,\text{cm}\), and \(2\,\text{cm}\).
Compare the volumes of the two solids. Does one have a greater volume, or are the volumes equal?
Hints
- How many unit cubes did Lisa use altogether?
- Use the dimensions to find how many unit cubes fit in Max's rectangular prism.
- Compare the two totals.
Solution
1. Lisa's solid contains \(6+4+2=12\) unit cubes, so its volume is \(12\,\text{cm}^3\).
2. Max's rectangular prism has a volume of \(3\times2\times2=12\,\text{cm}^3\).
3. The two solids have equal volumes.
Answer
The volumes are equal. Each solid has a volume of \(12\,\text{cm}^3\).
