Which of the following is the best estimate of the volume poured from a graduated cylinder marked in 1 mL increments, if the meniscus is at the 24.6 mL mark?

• A. 24.60 mL
• B. 24.6 mL
• C. 25 mL
• D. 24 mL

Answer: (B)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand that the volume reading from a graduated cylinder depends on the precision of the markings. Since the cylinder is marked in 1 mL increments, the smallest division you can directly read is 1 mL.
2. Recognize that when estimating volume, you can usually estimate one digit beyond the smallest marked division. Here, the smallest division is 1 mL, so you can estimate to the nearest 0.1 mL.
3. Look at the meniscus position relative to the markings. If the meniscus is between 24 mL and 25 mL, and appears closer to 24.6 mL, you record the volume as 24.6 mL, including the estimated digit.
4. Avoid recording more digits than the precision allows. Writing 24.60 mL implies precision to 0.01 mL, which is not justified by the 1 mL markings.
5. Therefore, the best estimate of the volume is 24.6 mL, reflecting the precision of the instrument and the estimated reading.