The most common laboratory apparatus are as follows:
- Bunsen burner
Bunsen burners are found in most laboratories and are one of the first tools used in science lessons at school. It is used to heat up liquids used in experiments and it is commonly placed underneath a tripod with a beaker or test tube attached. - Tripod
This is usually used with a gauze mat that is placed over, with materials or beakers etc subsequently placed directly on the mat. The tripod is very useful when you need to use a Bunsen burner underneath.
- Tongs
Tongs can be very useful when conducting experiments. They are used to grip items such as test tubes when they are too hot or dangerous to hold with your hands.
- Test tubes
Test tubes are very common in a lot of lab experiments. They are usually clear, long and thin and made from glass that is very heat absorbent. They are usually placed in test tube racks or a holder as they will not stand upright on their own.
- Mortar and pestle
Mortar and pestles are used to grind up any powders that are to be used in an experiment.
- Safety goggles
When conducting any experiments in a lab, safety is of the utmost importance. Therefore safety goggles are vital to wear before proceeding with any type of experiment. Many reactions can be fairly vigorous and so liquids can easily splash up and into the face.
