Flask

Flask is a type of container, often used in scientific laboratories, which is typically made of glass or plastic. Flasks come in a variety of shapes and sizes, and are used for a wide range of purposes, from holding and measuring liquids, to conducting experiments and carrying out chemical reactions.

Types of Flasks

There are several different types of flasks used in laboratories, each with its own specific uses. Some of the most common types include:

• Erlenmeyer Flask: This is a conical flask with a flat bottom, named after the German chemist Emil Erlenmeyer. It is used for mixing and heating liquids, and its narrow neck allows for the use of a stopper or bung.

• Volumetric Flask: This flask is used for precise measurements of liquids. It has a narrow neck and a flat bottom, and is marked with a line to indicate the volume it contains when filled to that point.

• Round Bottom Flask: As the name suggests, this flask has a round bottom. It is used in distillation processes, as its shape allows for even heating of the liquid inside.

• Florence Flask: This is a round-bottomed flask that is also known as a boiling flask. It is used for heating and boiling liquids, and its round shape allows for uniform heating.

Uses of Flasks

Flasks are used in a variety of scientific fields, including chemistry, biology, and medicine. They are used for a range of tasks, such as:

• Storing Liquids: Flasks can be used to store a variety of liquids, from water and other solvents, to chemical solutions and biological samples.

• Measuring Liquids: Some flasks, such as the volumetric flask, are designed to measure specific volumes of liquid with a high degree of accuracy.

• Mixing and Heating: Flasks like the Erlenmeyer and Florence flasks are used to mix and heat liquids. Their shape allows for even heating and easy swirling to mix the contents.

• Conducting Reactions: Many chemical reactions are carried out in flasks. The flask can be sealed with a stopper or bung to prevent the escape of gases or vapors, and can be heated or cooled as necessary.

See Also

• Beaker
• Test Tube
• Laboratory Equipment

Flask Resources
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