Calculating Volume, Surface Area, and Diagonals of Rectangular Prisms

The Organic Chemistry Tutor

This educational video provides a comprehensive tutorial on mastering the fundamental calculations for rectangular prisms. The instructor guides viewers through three distinct example problems, each focusing on a different property: calculating volume, determining surface area, and finding the length of the space diagonal. The video uses a digital whiteboard format to visually demonstrate how to sketch the shapes, label dimensions, and apply the correct formulas step-by-step. Themes explored include solid geometry, spatial visualization, and algebraic substitution. The video breaks down complex 3D concepts into manageable 2D components, such as decomposing surface area into pairs of rectangular faces and using the Pythagorean theorem in two steps to derive the space diagonal formula. It emphasizes the importance of units (cubic vs. square) and logical checking of answers. For educators, this video serves as an excellent instructional tool for middle and high school geometry units. It can be used to introduce new concepts, reinforce formula application, or support students who struggle with visualizing 3D space. The clear, procedural walkthroughs make it valuable for flipping the classroom or as a review resource before assessments on geometric measurement.