Question:

The ------ is used to measure the volume of hygroscopic material.

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Toluene is the standard liquid displacement medium in agricultural engineering to determine the true density and porosity of grains.
  • Benzene
  • Toluene
  • Distilled water
  • Tap water
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The Correct Option is B

Solution and Explanation



Step 1: Understanding the Concept:

Hygroscopic materials (such as grains, flours, and starches) absorb moisture when placed in contact with water.
Measuring their true volume via liquid displacement requires using a fluid that is not absorbed by the material.

Step 2: Detailed Explanation:

1. If distilled water or tap water is used, the hygroscopic material will absorb the water, causing swelling and resulting in inaccurate volume measurements.
2. Toluene is a non-polar organic solvent with low surface tension.
3. Because toluene does not penetrate or get absorbed into the cellular structure of agricultural grains and hygroscopic starches, it does not cause swelling.
4. This allows for precise volume measurement of seeds and grains using liquid displacement pycnometry.

Step 3: Final Answer:

Toluene is the solvent used to measure the volume of hygroscopic materials.
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