What this calculator does
Ponderal index works out a leanness measure like BMI, but using height cubed for consistency at any height. Enter your own figures above and the answer updates as you type: nothing is fixed in the code, so the result reflects exactly the numbers you supply.
The formula this calculator evaluates is printed under the tool and explained below, so you can check the working by hand or reuse it in a spreadsheet.
The formula
FormulaPonderal index = weight(kg) / height(m)³
The inputs explained
| Field | What to enter |
|---|---|
| Weight (kg) | A number, measured in kg. Starts at 75. |
| Height (cm) | A number, measured in cm. Starts at 175. |
Worked examples
Every figure in the tables below is produced by this page’s own calculator at build time, so the numbers and the tool always agree. Select any row to load that scenario.
How the answer changes with weight
Every other input is held at the calculator’s starting values while weight varies. Select any row to load that scenario into the calculator.
How the answer changes with weight
| Weight (kg) | Ponderal index | Typical adult range | Note |
|---|---|---|---|
| 37.5 | 7.00 kg/m³ | about 11 - 15 kg/m³ | Also used in neonatal care (there expressed in g/cm³) to flag babies who are unusually thin or stocky for their length. |
| 56.25 | 10.50 kg/m³ | about 11 - 15 kg/m³ | Also used in neonatal care (there expressed in g/cm³) to flag babies who are unusually thin or stocky for their length. |
| 75 | 13.99 kg/m³ | about 11 - 15 kg/m³ | Also used in neonatal care (there expressed in g/cm³) to flag babies who are unusually thin or stocky for their length. |
| 113 | 21.08 kg/m³ | about 11 - 15 kg/m³ | Also used in neonatal care (there expressed in g/cm³) to flag babies who are unusually thin or stocky for their length. |
| 150 | 27.99 kg/m³ | about 11 - 15 kg/m³ | Also used in neonatal care (there expressed in g/cm³) to flag babies who are unusually thin or stocky for their length. |
| 225 | 41.98 kg/m³ | about 11 - 15 kg/m³ | Also used in neonatal care (there expressed in g/cm³) to flag babies who are unusually thin or stocky for their length. |