Final answer:
To administer exactly 0.52 mL, a micropipette or a precision syringe should be used, as they are capable of accurately measuring such small volumes. Accuracy and precision in measurement are crucial for the reliability of chemistry experiments.
Step-by-step explanation:
To administer exactly 0.52 mL, you would use a precision instrument such as a micropipette or a syringe that can accurately measure small volumes. A graduated cylinder could potentially be used as well provided it has marks for tenths of a milliliter; however, for volumes as small as 0.52 mL, a micropipette is the preferred tool due to its greater precision and accuracy. When measuring volumes in chemistry, it is important to make sure the instrument is calibrated properly and that the measurement is taken at the bottom of the meniscus. Precision is important in chemistry experiments as it helps ensure reproducibility and accuracy of the results. For instance, in dilution problems, the preciseness of the measurement can affect the final concentration of the solution, which is crucial for the experiment's outcome.
In Figure 1.26, the concept of measuring liquid volume in a graduated cylinder is illustrated. The user must mentally subdivide the space between markings to estimate the volume at the bottom of the meniscus. This underlines the importance of precision and why equipment like a micropipette is better suited for dispensing very small and exact volumes such as 0.52 mL.