119k views
2 votes
When you read a graduated cylinder, do you read from the top, middle, or the bottom of the curved line?

User Lbrendanl
by
7.8k points

1 Answer

0 votes

Final answer:

When reading a graduated cylinder, you should read from the bottom of the curved line, known as the meniscus. The meniscus represents the lowest point on the liquid's curved surface within the cylinder.

Step-by-step explanation:

When determining the volume in a graduated cylinder, it is essential to read from the bottom of the curved line, commonly known as the meniscus.

The meniscus represents the lowest point on the liquid's curved surface within the cylinder.

For precision in measurement, it is crucial to ensure that the cylinder is positioned horizontally and that your line of sight aligns with the liquid's upper surface.

Achieving an accurate reading involves maintaining the cylinder's level orientation and positioning your eyes at the same level as the liquid's top.

By adhering to these practices, you enhance the reliability of your volume measurements, as any deviations in the cylinder's alignment or the observer's eye level can introduce inaccuracies.

Thus, the careful consideration of the meniscus and its accurate interpretation contributes to the precision and reliability of volume readings in scientific and laboratory settings.

User Miroslav Trninic
by
8.5k points