Which instrument provides greater accuracy for delivering precise volumes in a lab setting?

• A. Beaker
• B. Measuring cylinder
• C. Pipette
• D. Burette

Answer: (D)

Accuracy when delivering liquids comes from having fine graduations and the ability to control flow precisely. A burette provides a long glass tube with very fine markings and a stopcock, so you can add exact, small amounts and stop exactly where you want. This lets you measure the total volume delivered with high precision, which is essential in titrations. Read the liquid level at the bottom of the meniscus at eye level to minimize parallax error.

Beaker and measuring cylinder have larger, coarser marks and are suited to rough measurements or transferring liquids, not for precise addition. A pipette can be extremely accurate for delivering a specific volume, but it’s usually used for one fixed amount; for adding varying, controlled amounts during an experiment, the burette offers greater precision and flexibility.