Final answer:
To decide between volume and surface area, consider if the measure involves filling space or covering surfaces. Volume is used for the amount within containers like tubes, cans, and pots. Surface area applies to covering or creating surfaces of objects like cans and tubes.
Step-by-step explanation:
To determine whether to measure volume or surface area for the given descriptions, consider what is being measured.
Amount of confetti stuffed in a tube (Volume)
Amount of soup in a can (Volume)
Amount of paper to cover a can (Surface Area)
Amount of paint for the outside of a tube (Surface Area)
Amount of cardboard to make a tube (Surface Area)
Amount of dirt in a flower pot (Volume)
For instances involving filling an object or space with material such as confetti, soup, or dirt, volume is the appropriate measure. When you're covering an object or determining the amount of material needed to create an object's surface, such as paper, paint, or cardboard, surface area is the correct measure.