would you expect the absorbance to be higher or lower if the dilution of one of the solutions went under the calibration mark on the volumetric flask.
You need to clarify the question.
probably lower because its less of the solution and it would not have that much light
If the dilution of one of the solutions goes below the calibration mark on the volumetric flask, it means that less solvent was added to the solution than the intended volume. This would result in a more concentrated solution.
As a result, the absorbance would be expected to be higher in comparison to a correctly diluted solution. This is because the higher concentration of solute would result in increased absorption of light.
Absorbance is directly proportional to concentration, according to the Beer-Lambert law. So, a more concentrated solution would produce a higher absorbance reading when measured using a spectrophotometer or any other instrument that measures absorbance.