Glassware Tips for Lab Success

What is the preferred type of glassware for laboratory and household use?

Options:

a. Clear round glass

b. Pyrex®

c. Plastic

d. Ceramic

Answer:

The preferred type of glassware for laboratory and household use is Pyrex®.

Pyrex® is the preferred glassware for laboratory and household use due to its low coefficient of linear expansion, which makes it less prone to breaking from thermal stress. This type of glass is known for its durability and reliability under varying temperatures.

When using glassware in a laboratory setting, it is crucial to select materials that can withstand thermal stress. Pyrex® glass has a lower coefficient of linear expansion compared to other types of glass, meaning it does not expand or contract as much when exposed to temperature changes. This property makes Pyrex® less likely to break due to thermal stress, especially when transitioning rapidly between hot and cold temperatures.

For example, Pyrex® glass can effectively cover an evaporating dish in the lab, preventing the escape of substances and maintaining a controlled environment within the dish. This durability and reliability make Pyrex® an excellent choice for various laboratory applications.

Understanding the properties of materials like Pyrex® is essential in fields such as Chemistry, where thermal expansion of solids and liquids plays a significant role. By choosing glassware with a low coefficient of linear expansion like Pyrex®, the risk of breakage due to thermal stress is minimized, making it an invaluable tool for both scientific and culinary purposes.