Select the glassware that is most appropriate to use to obtain an approximate volume of HCl from the dispensing station? Select one:
a. a beaker b. a graduated cylinder c. an erlenmeyer flask d. A or B e. A, B, or C
The correct answer and explanation is:
The correct answer is: b. a graduated cylinder
Explanation:
To obtain an approximate volume of hydrochloric acid (HCl) from a dispensing station, a graduated cylinder is the most appropriate glassware to use. This is because a graduated cylinder is designed specifically for measuring liquids with a reasonable degree of accuracy. It is marked with graduations along the side, allowing for precise readings of liquid volumes. The narrow shape of the graduated cylinder helps minimize errors in reading, especially when measuring volumes of liquids that do not need to be precise to the last drop.
Let’s consider the other options:
- a. A beaker is typically used for mixing or holding liquids but is not ideal for measuring precise volumes. The markings on beakers are usually rough estimates, which means they are not accurate enough to measure liquid volumes with the required precision.
- c. An Erlenmeyer flask is a type of glassware used for mixing and heating liquids, but like the beaker, it does not offer the precise volume measurements required in this context. It’s more suitable for titration procedures, where the volume isn’t the primary focus.
Graduated cylinders are the most commonly used glassware when the task requires measuring a liquid with moderate accuracy. They are typically used when you need to get an approximate volume but do not need the extreme precision offered by pipettes or burettes.
In summary, for measuring the approximate volume of HCl from the dispensing station, a graduated cylinder (option b) is the best choice.