When measuring the volume of a liquid in a graduated cylinder, at which point of the meniscus should you take the reading?

• A. At the midpoint of the meniscus
• B. At the side of the meniscus
• C. At the top of the meniscus
• D. At the bottom of the meniscus

Answer: (D)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand that the meniscus is the curve seen at the liquid's surface in a container, caused by surface tension and adhesion between the liquid and container walls.
2. Recognize that for most liquids like water, the meniscus curves downward (concave), forming a dip in the center.
3. When taking a volume reading, your eye should be level with the liquid surface to avoid parallax error, which can cause inaccurate measurements.
4. The correct point to read the volume is at the lowest point of the meniscus (the bottom of the curve) because this provides the most consistent and accurate measurement.
5. Note that for liquids that form a convex meniscus (like mercury), the reading is taken at the top of the meniscus, but for common liquids such as water, always read at the bottom.