Every school has a well-equipped science laboratory where all the experiments are performed. The theoretical lessons are not enough for practical learning. Since science is a subject dealing with the analysis and evaluation of various experiments, it requires practical implementation. So, at school, the students are perhaps more excited to perform laboratory experiments than attend classroom lectures!
Students acquire a basic understanding of the use of diverse lab instruments. It helps in better interpretation of the diverse theories and principles. Some of the most common science laboratory instruments that are available in every laboratory are discussed here.
The 5 Common Equipment at the Science Laboratory
Every school, college, medical, and research laboratory consists of some of the popular equipment. Anybody can point out these instruments when they enter these laboratories. These are:
- Test Tube– A test tube is a long cylindrical-shaped glass container with a rounded base and top-opening. These tubes generally come in diverse sizes. However, there is one standard size that is widely used- 18×150 mm. The test tubes have multiple functions including the storage and mix a large number of chemical agents.
- Beaker– Beakers are wider glass containers than test tubes with a flat base and they have a measurement scale. The beakers are used to store, mix, and heat various chemicals and reactive agents.
- Magnifying Glass– This is used to observe tiny specimens for enlarged view. Made up of a convex lens, it is a very helpful tool used in a laboratory.
- Dropper– It is a small glass or plastic tool with a nozzle and a rubber holder. The dropper is used to pour liquids or solutions in small drops. It is also called the Pasteur pipette.Â
- Microscope– It is perhaps the very first laboratory instrument introduced to a student. It is used to view minuscule samples through a sequence of convex lenses.Â
A lab equipment supplier supplies these instruments to the various science laboratories. These pieces of equipment are always in high demand.Â
Here are some of the common FAQs for enhanced understanding:
- What are the equipment used in the lab?
There is a wide range of equipment used in a laboratory. The most common ones are:
- Test Tube
- Beaker
- Bunsen Burner
- Watch Glass
- Slides
- Microscope
- Dropper
- Burette
- Funnel
- Thermometer
- Magnifying Glass
- Electronic Balance
- Evaporating Dish
- Forceps
- Glass Stir Rod
- Rubber Stopper
- Spatula
- Brushes
- Volumetric Flask
- Wash Bottle
- What is basic laboratory equipment?
The basic laboratory equipment are the general equipment noticed in every laboratory including science, research, clinical, and medical. Some of these are scales, pipettes, freezers, Bunsen burners, stirrers, coolers, centrifuges, hot plates, incubators, fume hoods, and water baths.
- What do you do in a science lab?
In a science laboratory, you perform experiments and assemble data. This data is used for inspection and analysis. The various instruments in a science lab have specific functions that identify, evaluate, and verify test results.
- What are the dos and don’ts in a science lab?
Performing experiments at the science lab may be exciting but certain measures must be taken. These are:
- Do put on safety goggles
- Do wear disposable gloves
- Do protect your feet with covered shoes
- Do maintain notes
- Do use glassware and sharp objects safely
- Don’t have food or drink in the lab
- Don’t apply too much force while using delicate equipment
- Don’t be in a hurry
A science lab is an action-packed spot where several conclusions are drawn and the results are verified. It can be a fun place to work when the safety rules are precisely followed.
