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🍏principles of physics i review

Graduated cylinder

Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025
Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025

Definition

A graduated cylinder is a cylindrical container used to measure the volume of liquids accurately. It features marked increments along its length, allowing users to read the volume of liquid with precision, which is crucial in experiments and measurements where exact quantities are required.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

  1. Graduated cylinders come in various sizes, typically ranging from 10 mL to 2000 mL, catering to different measurement needs.
  2. The accuracy of a graduated cylinder is generally higher than that of a beaker or flask due to its design and the way it is calibrated.
  3. When measuring liquids, it's essential to ensure the graduated cylinder is on a flat surface to prevent parallax errors.
  4. Graduated cylinders are typically made of glass or clear plastic, allowing for easy visibility of the liquid inside.
  5. To use a graduated cylinder effectively, one must read the measurement at eye level to avoid misreading the volume due to the meniscus curve.

Review Questions

  • How does the design of a graduated cylinder contribute to accurate volume measurements?
    • The design of a graduated cylinder, with its tall and narrow shape, minimizes the surface area of the liquid and reduces the effect of evaporation. The marked increments along its length allow for precise readings, especially when measuring small volumes. Furthermore, using a flat base ensures stability during measurement, preventing spills and inaccuracies caused by tilting.
  • Compare and contrast the use of a graduated cylinder and a beaker for measuring liquids. What are the advantages of using each?
    • A graduated cylinder provides more accurate measurements due to its precise scale and narrow shape, making it ideal for tasks that require exact volume measurements. In contrast, a beaker is better suited for mixing and pouring liquids but lacks precision in measurement. While beakers are easier to handle for larger quantities and rough estimates, graduated cylinders excel in accuracy and are essential when precision is necessary in experimental procedures.
  • Evaluate the importance of proper technique when reading measurements in a graduated cylinder. What can happen if these techniques are not followed?
    • Proper technique in reading measurements from a graduated cylinder is critical because failure to do so can lead to significant errors in volume readings. If one does not read at eye level with the bottom of the meniscus, it can result in underestimating or overestimating the actual liquid volume. This inaccuracy can affect experimental outcomes and data integrity, leading to erroneous conclusions and potentially flawed results in scientific work.