20 Laboratory Apparatus that Scientists Use in the Lab

Laboratory Equipment

Laboratory apparatus are essential tools that enable scientists to conduct experiments. By using lab tools, they can make measurements, and gather data in a controlled environment.

These instruments range from basic items like beakers and test tubes for mixing and storing liquids. But there are also more complex equipment such as distilling flasks, which separate different mixtures.

Today, we’ll provide an overview of laboratory apparatus. Each one has a role in the laboratory and contributes to the accuracy of experiments.

Categories of Laboratory Apparatus

We can divide laboratory apparatus into 5 categories:

Measuring Tools: Instruments like beakers and pipettes for measuring liquids.
Heating Devices: Bunsen burners and hot plates for heating substances.
Glassware: Flasks and test tubes for mixing and holding chemicals.
Protective Gear: Gloves and goggles for safety.
Analytical Instruments: Microscopes and spectrophotometers for detailed analysis.

Now, let’s get into more detail for examples of each of these categories.

Laboratory Apparatus for Experiments

Below, you’ll find the 7 most common laboratory apparatuses that scientists use in the lab. The choice of apparatus depends on the type of experiment that the scientist is conducting.

1. Beaker

A wide, cylindrical glass container that scientists use for mixing, heating, and stirring liquids.

2. Test Tube

A small glass tube for holding, mixing, or heating small quantities of substances.

3. Evaporating Dish

A shallow dish in laboratories for heating and evaporating liquids, leaving behind solids.

4. Graduated Cylinder

A tall, narrow container with markings to measure the volume of liquids accurately.

5. Funnel

A tool for pouring liquids into containers with small openings without spilling.

6. Mortar & Pestle

A bowl and grinding tool that scientists use to crush and grind substances into powder or paste.

7. Distilling Flask

A distillation flask separates mixtures based on boiling points.

8. Pipette

A tool for transferring or measuring small amounts of liquid with precision.

9. Burette

A long, graduated tube for accurately dispensing variable volumes of liquids.

10. Microscope

An instrument for viewing tiny, detailed structures not visible to the naked eye.

11. Centrifuge

A machine that spins samples at high speeds to separate substances of different densities.

12. Bunsen Burner

A small gas burner for heating substances in a laboratory.

13. Thermometer

A device for checking the temperature of gases and liquids.

14. Petri Dish

A shallow dish for culturing cells and observing microorganisms.

15. Lab Gloves

Essential for protecting hands from hazardous materials for experiments.

16. Goggles

Safety eyewear to shield eyes from chemical splashes, debris, and intense light in lab settings.

17. Spectro-photometers

Instruments measuring light intensity to analyze chemical concentrations.

18. Tongs

Used to handle hot or chemically dangerous materials safely in the lab.

19. Stirring Rod

A tool for mixing or stirring chemical solutions and liquids.

20. Hot Plate

An electric device for uniformly heating substances in containers.

Each laboratory apparatus has its own unique purpose to facilitate specific experiments. Remember that all laboratory personnel should be well-versed in safety protocols before using any of these laboratory tools.

Summary: What’s in Your Lab?

In summary, laboratory apparatus are the backbone of scientific research. They enable scientists to conduct experiments in fields like chemistry, biology, and physics.

Each piece of equipment plays a role in different experimental procedures. They range from simple mixing and measuring to complex analysis and observations.

Knowing how and when to use these tools not only ensures accurate results. But it also enhances the efficiency and safety of laboratory work.