From the image of the graduated cylinder, we observe that the meniscus is slightly above the 2 mL mark but below 3 mL. Specifically, the meniscus appears to be at approximately 2.6 mL.

Thus, the initial volume of water is 2.6 mL.

Would you like further clarification or details about significant figures in this context?

Here are five related questions for further practice:

1. What would be the new volume reading if a solid object is added to the graduated cylinder and it displaces 1.5 mL of water?
2. How do you calculate the density of an object using the mass and volume displacement method?
3. If the object's mass is 3.95 g, what is its density using the water displacement method?
4. Why is it important to read the volume at the bottom of the meniscus?
5. How does temperature affect the accuracy of volume measurements in a graduated cylinder?

Tip: Always measure the volume from the bottom of the meniscus to get an accurate reading.