Graduated Cylinders are volumetric measuring devices designed to measure and deliver accurate volumes of liquids.

When measuring liquids in a graduated cylinder, you always measure from the center of the curvature in the liquid called the meniscus. Some liquids, like mercury, have a convex meniscus. Most liquids, however, will have a concave meniscus and the volume in the graduated cylinder should be read from the bottom center of this meniscus (as above).