Question

please read the meniscus volume on the 10 ml graduated cylinder shown on the right (or bottom depending on your device). the smaller image on the left (or top) is an empty 10 ml graduated cylinder to help determine the correct precision of this tool. 4.20 ml 4. ml 4.2 ml 4.30 ml

Explanation:

Step1: Determine the precision of the graduated cylinder

The empty \(10\space mL\) graduated cylinder helps. A \(10\space mL\) graduated cylinder typically has a precision of \(0.1\space mL\) (each major division is \(1\space mL\) and there are \(10\) sub - divisions between each major division).

Step2: Read the meniscus

The meniscus (the curved surface of the liquid) is at the \(4.2\space mL\) mark. We read the bottom of the meniscus. The value \(4.20\space mL\) would imply a precision of \(0.01\space mL\) which is not typical for a \(10\space mL\) graduated cylinder. The value \(4\space mL\) is too approximate as it ignores the sub - divisions. The value \(4.30\space mL\) is also incorrect as the meniscus is not at \(4.3\space mL\).

Answer:

\(4.2\space mL\)