More accurate and precise for measuring the volume of a liquid than laboratory beakers and flasks, special purpose cylinders are specifically designed for working with certain materials or reactions. The cylinders may also be used to indirectly measure a solid's volume by measuring liquid displacement. Special purpose graduated cylinders typically have marked lines representing the volume contained. Cylinders made from polypropylene have excellent chemical resistance, while polyethylene cylinders are noted for their transparency and impact resistance. Borosilicate cylinders have high temperature and thermal shock resistance.