16Hit1600
Geometry and TrigonometryVery hardSurface area of a sphere from its volume

Geometry and Trigonometry practice question

A sphere has a volume of 36π cubic units. What is its surface area?

  1. A. 36πCorrect
  2. B. 12π
  3. C. 9π
  4. D. 108π

Answer: A. 36π

(4/3)πr³ = 36π gives r³ = 27, so r = 3 and the surface area is 4π(3)² = 36π.

Why the other answers are wrong

B. 12π
This uses 4πr instead of 4πr².
C. 9π
This is πr², one great circle.
D. 108π
This multiplies the volume by 3.

More Geometry and Trigonometry questions

Not affiliated with the College Board. SAT is a trademark of the College Board.