FTCE General Knowledge Math Practice Test

What shape is primarily represented by the formula 4(3.14)(r^2)?

1. A cone

2. A cylinder

3. A sphere

4. A rectangular solid

The correct answer is: A sphere

The formula 4(3.14)(r^2) represents the surface area of a sphere. The component 3.14 is an approximation of the constant π (pi), which is crucial in calculations involving circles and spherical objects. The term r^2 indicates that it pertains to the area calculation based on the radius of the sphere. In the context of geometry, the surface area of a sphere is indeed calculated using the formula 4πr^2, which directly aligns with the formula presented in the question. Thus, the formula clearly signifies a sphere. Other shapes, such as a cone, cylinder, or rectangular solid, utilize different formulas for their surface areas or volumes that do not resemble this particular structure.