Common Laboratory Apparatus and Equipments
ICSE Class 6 · Chemistry · Chapter 2
What this chapter covers
- Common laboratory apparatus
- Uses of each apparatus
- Heating in the laboratory
- Laboratory safety rules
- Handling and storing chemicals
Key definitions
Apparatus is the name for the tools and equipment used to do experiments.
Filter paper is a special paper with very tiny holes that let a liquid pass through but stop solid bits.
Key points
- Apparatus is the name for the tools and equipment used to do experiments.
- A test tube holds small amounts; a test-tube holder grips it while heating; a test-tube stand keeps tubes upright.
- A beaker holds and warms larger amounts of liquid; a flask has a narrow neck to stop splashing.
- A funnel guides liquid into narrow openings and, with filter paper, separates solids from liquids.
- A spirit lamp gives gentle heat; a Bunsen burner gives a hot blue flame when its air hole is open.
- A tripod stand holds apparatus above the burner, and a wire gauze spreads the heat.
- Heat a test tube only one-third full, slanted, moving, with its mouth pointing away from people.
- Hot glass looks the same as cold glass, so let it cool before touching it.
- Wear goggles and a coat, never eat or taste in the laboratory, and report every accident.
- Read every label, use a spatula, keep bottles closed and store harmful chemicals low and locked.
Questions answered
Name the apparatus you would use to hold a test tube while heating it.
A test-tube holder.
Why is most laboratory apparatus made of glass?
Glass is see-through, does not react with most chemicals and is easy to clean. Laboratory glass also resists heat.
What is placed on a tripod stand under a beaker, and why?
A wire gauze. It spreads the heat of the flame evenly so that the beaker does not crack.
Give one difference between a beaker and a conical flask.
A beaker has straight sides and a wide mouth. A conical flask has a cone-shaped body and a narrow neck that stops splashing.
Which colour of Bunsen burner flame is used for heating, and why?
The blue flame, because it is hotter and does not leave soot on the glass.
Why should the mouth of a test tube point away from people while heating?
The liquid may suddenly boil and shoot out. Pointing the mouth away keeps that liquid from hitting anyone.
How should you smell a chemical in the laboratory?
By wafting: hold the tube away from your face and wave the air gently towards your nose.
Why are some chemicals stored in dark brown bottles?
Because they change when light falls on them. The dark glass keeps out light.