Why is the formula V = πr²h used?

The formula V = πr²h is specifically used to determine the volume of a cylinder. In this formula, V represents the volume, r is the radius of the circular base, h is the height of the cylinder, and π (pi) is a constant approximately equal to 3.14159. The term πr² calculates the area of the circular base of the cylinder, and multiplying this area by the height (h) gives the total volume enclosed within the cylindrical shape.

This formula is derived from the understanding that a cylinder can be visualized as a series of circular disks stacked on top of each other, where the volume of each disk is equal to its area multiplied by the thickness (which corresponds to the height of the cylinder when all disks are considered together). Thus, it showcases how the dimensions of a cylinder directly relate to the space it occupies.