A measuring cylinder, also known as a graduated cylinder, is a fundamental piece of laboratory equipment used for precise volume measurements. Let’s delve into its features and applications:

1. Types of Measuring Cylinders:

   • Material: Measuring cylinders can be made from either glass or plastic.

     • Glass Measuring Cylinder: These are constructed from borosilicate glass, which has low thermal expansion and maintains transparency and strength even under high temperatures (up to 268°C). Glass measuring cylinders are fragile and typically available in smaller sizes (up to 1000 ml).
     • Plastic Measuring Cylinder: These come in two main types:
       • TPX® Polymethyl Pentene (PMP): Clear and easy to handle, TPX® PMP measuring cylinders are expensive but offer good readability. They can tolerate high heat (up to 177°C) and are autoclavable.
       • Polypropylene: Translucent plastic with two measurement scales (total contained and total delivered). Polypropylene measuring cylinders are also autoclavable but have lower thermal tolerance than TPX® PMP1.

   • Precision: Glassware is categorized into two precision classes:

     • Class A: More accurate than Class B. Made from borosilicate glass, Class A measuring cylinders are suitable for precise measurements.
     • Class B: Slightly less precise than Class A. These are commonly used in laboratories for moderately precise volume measurements1.

2. Uses of Graduated Cylinders:

   • Volume Measurement: Graduated cylinders are primarily used for measuring liquid volumes. They are essential for preparing solutions, mixing chemicals, and creating various specimens.
   • Indirect Mass Measurement: By measuring the volume of a liquid, graduated cylinders can indirectly determine the mass of a solid (using the density relationship).

3. How to Use a Graduated Cylinder:

   • Place the graduated cylinder on a flat surface.
   • Read the volume at the meniscus (the curved surface of the liquid) at eye level.
   • Ensure proper calibration and handle the cylinder carefully to avoid breakage.