To accurately measure a fluid level in a graduated cylinder, read the bottom of the meniscus. The sample amount is approximately 19.9 ml. Temperature affects fluid volume, especially in fuel measurements, with volume consistent but mass varying between seasons.
When measuring the volume of liquid in a graduated cylinder, it is crucial to do so with accuracy. The correct level is determined by reading the bottom of the meniscus, which is the lowest point on the curved surface of the liquid. It's important to ensure that the instrument is level and that your eye is at the level of the meniscus to avoid parallax error.
In the given scenario, the fluid level in question lies between 19.8 ml and 20 ml. By making a careful estimation, we interpret the level to be approximately 19.9 ml. It's worth noting that variations in temperature can cause fluids to expand or contract, which is especially relevant when considering measurements of gasoline in different seasons. During summer, gasoline expands, resulting in a lower mass for the same volume than in winter, which could affect how far you can still drive when the gauge indicates 'empty'.
The unit of measurement chosen, such as milliliters or liters, depends on the volume of liquid being measured. Larger volumes, like the capacity of a car's fuel tank, would typically be measured in liters, whereas small amounts such as medicine dosages would be measured in milliliters.