Which instrument is used to measure volume of a liquid with precise markings?

• A. Graduated Cylinder
• B. Burette
• C. Beakers and Flasks
• D. Meter

Answer: (A)

Measuring liquid volume with marked increments relies on a tool designed for direct volume readings. A graduated cylinder is built with a tall, narrow shape and a clear scale along its side, so you can read the exact volume by looking at the mark that aligns with the liquid surface. You read at eye level and typically at the bottom of the meniscus—the curved surface of the liquid—to get a precise value.

This makes the graduated cylinder better for measuring volumes than beakers or flasks, which have rougher, less precise markings and are mainly used for mixing or holding liquids. A burette also has marked graduations and is very precise, but it’s optimized for dispensing known amounts during titrations rather than simply measuring the volume of a liquid in a container. A meter isn’t a standard tool for measuring liquid volume.