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.

Category:Science