What Is a Graduated Cylinder?
A graduated cylinder is a laboratory instrument used to measure the volume of a liquid. It is cylindrical, and equipped with a scale on the side. The volume is read visually at the lowest point of the meniscus, which forms at the surface of the liquid in the cylinder.
It’s important to avoid using abrasive materials for cleaning the cylinder as they can scratch the interior, leading to minor volume discrepancies.
For measuring organic solvents, it’s advised to use a glass cylinder, as plastic ones can dissolve or swell due to certain solvents. A glass cylinder is recommended in such cases.
Uses of Graduated Cylinders
A graduated cylinder is a laboratory instrument used to measure the volume of liquids in chemistry experiments. They are also a staple in educational settings for simple, hands-on science experiments.
The capacity of graduated cylinders typically ranges from 10 mL to 1 L. The volume per scale division and the associated measurement error vary depending on the cylinder’s capacity. The material of the cylinder is glass or resin.
Usage and Accuracy of Graduated Cylinders
A graduated cylinder is an elongated cylindrical container with a scale on it. To ensure an accurate reading, place the cylinder on a level surface and observe the scale at the meniscus’s bottom.
The accuracy of the graduated cylinder is determined by the fineness of the scale. For precise measurements requiring higher accuracy, a volumetric flask is recommended over a graduated cylinder. See more on measuring flasks.
How to Clean a Graduated Cylinder
Clean it using a solvent that can dissolve the contents or residue. Avoid abrasive materials during cleaning to prevent scratching the glass, which could affect volume measurements.
For resin cylinders, use water or a solvent that is chemically compatible with the resin to prevent alterations in volume due to swelling or dissolution. Cleaning with organic solvents such as acetone may cause volume changes in resin cylinders.