Why Don't Surface Area & Volume Ratios of Spheres Match?

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SUMMARY

The discussion addresses the mathematical relationship between the surface area and volume of spheres, highlighting that the surface area is proportional to the square of the radius while the volume is proportional to the cube of the radius. This results in differing ratios when comparing two spheres; for example, a 1:4 ratio for surface areas and a 1:8 ratio for volumes. The conversation emphasizes that these ratios do not match due to the fundamental geometric principles governing spheres.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of geometric principles, specifically surface area and volume calculations.
  • Familiarity with the mathematical concepts of proportionality.
  • Knowledge of sphere geometry, including radius and aspect ratios.
  • Basic algebra skills for manipulating ratios and equations.
NEXT STEPS
  • Research the mathematical derivation of surface area and volume formulas for spheres.
  • Explore the implications of surface area-to-volume ratios in thermal dynamics.
  • Study the concept of aspect ratios in three-dimensional shapes.
  • Investigate real-world applications of surface area and volume ratios in engineering and design.
USEFUL FOR

Students of mathematics, physics enthusiasts, and professionals in engineering or design fields who seek to understand the geometric relationships between surface area and volume in spheres.

vikvon
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Howcome the ratio of the surface area of spheres are not equal to the ratio of volume of spheres?

For example if I had two spheres, with an aspect ratio of 1:4 when comparing surface areas, yet I have 1:8 between those same spheres when comparing volume.

This doesn't make sense to me, shouldn't the ratio be the same?
 
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the surface area is proportional to the square of the radius

the volume is proportional to the cube of the radius
 
This might help...

A line of length 2cm consists of TWO 1cm lines.

A square with side length 2cm consists of FOUR squares with side length 1cm.

A cube with side length 2cm consists of EIGHT cubes with side length 1cm.

And imagine if you took two hot coals out of a fire, one small one and a big one, which one would cool down fastest, and why?
 

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