Vocabulary: Measuring Volume

Vocabulary

• Cubic centimeter – a unit of volume equal to the volume of a cube that measures 1 centimeter on each edge.

o The symbol for cubic centimeters is “cm3” or “cc.”

o One cubic centimeter is the same volume as 1 milliliter.

• Diameter – a straight line segment that passes from one side of a circle or sphere to the other, passing through the center.

o The term “diameter” also refers to the length of this line segment.

• Graduated cylinder – a tall, narrow container that is used for measuring volume.

o The sides of a graduated cylinder have tick marks that show the volume of liquid inside.

• Meniscus – the curved surface of liquid in a container.

o The meniscus is caused by surface tension:

▪ Water molecules along the waterline are attracted to the surface of the container, causing them to be pulled upward.

▪ In some cases, the liquid molecules around the edges may be pulled downward because they are not attracted to the walls of the container, resulting in a convex meniscus.

o When measuring volume in a graduated cylinder, read from the bottom of the meniscus.

• Milliliter – a unit of volume equal to one-thousandth of a liter.

o The symbol for milliliter is “mL.”

o A milliliter represents exactly as much volume as 1 cubic centimeter. Milliliters usually are used for liquids while cubic centimeters are used for solids.

• Pipette – a small tube with a bulb designed to release liquid one drop at a time.

•