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Assuming that the liquid in the beaker is water.... Due to the structure of water (two hydrogen, one oxygen), it has a slight negative charge near the oxygen atom an a slightly positive charge near the hydrogen atoms. These slight charges allow the edges of the water to cling to the sides of the beaker, thus creating a meniscus. Some liquids, like Mercury, actually would create a reversed meniscus (compare an alcohol thermometer with a mercury one).
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ViviThe sides of the liquid in a beaker go up at the edges due to a phenomenon called surface tension. This occurs because the molecules at the surface of the liquid are attracted more strongly to each other than to the surrounding air. as a result, the liquid forms a meniscus shape.
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Where do you read the meniscus?
The meniscus of a liquid is read at the bottom of the curve that forms at the liquid's surface in a graduated cylinder or a similar container. To determine the volume of the liquid accurately, it is important to read the measurement at the lowest point of the meniscus.
How do you read meniscus on a graduated cylinder?
All liquids have a surface tension. This tension creates a meniscus or curve on the surface, most noticeable in small diameter tubes or cylinders. The meniscus of water curves up the sides of the cylinder, while heavy liquids like mercury curves down the cylinder. You should always measure light liquids at the bottom of the meniscus and heavy liquids at the top of the meniscus.
Why does meniscus of water in glass curves upwards?
The meniscus of water in a glass curves upward due to surface tension. Water molecules are more attracted to the glass than to each other, causing them to climb up the sides of the glass. This creates a concave meniscus shape.
Why is it necessary to scratch the sides of the beaker for crystals to form?
Scratching the sides of the beaker provides a rough surface for crystal molecules to attach to, promoting nucleation and crystal growth. The scratches create sites for the crystals to start forming, which helps to speed up the crystallization process and yields larger crystals.
What is a meniscus is and how it is used to measure liquids?
A meniscus is the curve of a liquid. Like when you are filling a glass of water, if you continue to put water in the glass after it has reached the top, then the extra water will go above the glass in a curved shape. When you are measuring liquids in for example a graduated cylinder, you would take the measurement from the bottom of the meniscus. I hope this helps!
