Four Common Lab Flasks: Filter, Florance, Erlenmeyer and Volumetric
Four of the most commonly used flasks in scientific procedures and experiments are: Erlenmeyer, filter, volumetric, and Florence flasks. Knowing some of the basic differences between these flasks can help ensure a successful outcome of the experiment. The Erlenmeyer flask can be used for general measuring, mixing and heating and is available in a range of sizes. This flask is scored to various increments to give an approximate volume. The filter flask resembles an Erlenmeyer but has a connector on the upper side to connect to a vacuum. These are typically used for catching the liquid coming through the filter and are not recommended for mixing solutions as it is possible for the solution to splash out of the side opening. Volumetric flasks are more exact in their measurements, and each size will only create one amount of solution. These flasks are intended to make exact solutions, although some of the larger ones may be used for mixing and heating as well. Florence flasks resemble volumetric flasks with the long, narrow neck but may have a rounded bottom instead of the flat bottom. These are used primarily in mixing and heating and are not graded to measure out solutions. The rounded bottom Florence flasks will need to be supported to prevent them from falling over and rolling. Considering the needs for each procedure should help when deciding which flask will be the most suitable.