Laboratory techniques

Laboratory techniques are the techniques of handling the various pieces of apparatus.

Basic techniques

Handling of chemicals

Ways to dissolve a solid in a liquid or to mix two liquids in a test tube:

• Shake the test tube gently
• Stir with a glass rod
• Tap the bottom of the test tube with your finger
• Pour the contents to and fro between two test tubes
• Stopper the test tube and shake

Heating techniques

• Hold the material over a naked flame
• Put the material in a water bath
• Use a type of hairdryer called a "heat gun" to blow hot air at the material.

Collecting gases

• Upward and downward delivery
• Over water
• Gas syringe

Drying substances

• Leave the mixture at room temperature to evaporate on its own.
• Put the substance in an "oven" which heats it gently and removes water vapour.

Smelling gases

• Never smell a gas directly.
• Waft a gas towards yourself if it is reasonably safe to smell it.
• Never smell a gas that is toxic or otherwise dangerous.