Final answer:
The correct way to report the volume of water in a graduated cylinder is to provide an estimate to the nearest 0.1 mL based on where the bottom of the meniscus sits, which should be approximately 19.9 mL in this case, not the options provided.
Step-by-step explanation:
The question revolves around the correct way to report a measurement of volume using a graduated cylinder. When you measure the volume of a liquid like water in a graduated cylinder, you should report the measurement by looking at where the bottom of the meniscus falls in relation to the markings on the cylinder. According to the information provided, the water level is between 19.8 ml and 20 ml. Since the smallest scale division on the graduated cylinder allows for estimation to the nearest 0.1 mL, the student should report the volume as approximately 19.9 ml, which is not one of the provided answer choices. Therefore, the correct way should be to provide an estimated measurement with one decimal place, which reflects the precision of the instrument being used.