The volume of a liquid is most easily determined using a graduated cylinder (below left). When a liquid is placed into a graduated cylinder, the surface takes on a curved shape. This curve is known as a meniscus. The graduated cylinder is calibrated so that reading the bottom of the meniscus, when viewed at eye level, will give
accurate results. Viewing the meniscus at any angle other than eye level will give inaccurate results. This graduate cylinder (below right) reads 24.3 ml.
More detailed information about determining the volume of liquids can be found in the lab techniques section.
