The problem given above is simply a conversion problem. We are asked to convert from units of liters to units of milliliters. To do this, we need a conversion factor which would relate the different units involved. We either multiply or divide this certain value to the original measurement depending on what is asked. From literature, we will find that 1 Liter is equal to 1000 milliliters. So, we have to multiply 1000 to the original value given. We do as follows:
0.42 L ( 1000 mL / 1 L ) = 420 mL
Therefore, the volume of water in the beaker is 420 mL.