Uses of a Volumetric Flask
A volumetric flask is a type of glassware utilized in laboratories for accurately measuring volumes of liquids. The flask is typically used in chemical experiments but it may also serve as a decorative display at home.
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Description
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A volumetric flask is characterized by a triangular and flat-bottomed base with rounded edges. The flask has a narrow neck that is covered with a cork-like plastic cap or glass stopper.
Volumetric flasks are calibrated at certain volumes and temperatures (such as 500mL & 20 degrees Celsius) to indicate the parameters at which the flask is capable of measuring accurately.
Tool for Volumetric Analysis
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Volumetric flasks are tools for collecting the quantitative and chemical data of a substance. This is done by adding an unknown substance to a liquid solution inside the flask and then measuring the difference (in volume) before and after the addition was made.
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Solution Mixer
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Volumetric flasks are utilized in mixing liquids or dissolving a known amount of solid into liquid substances, for instance, dissolving 1g of salt to 100mL water. Once the ingredients have been thoroughly mixed, 1% brine (salt solution) is obtained.
Dilution Glassware
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A volumetric flask is also used in diluting concentrated solutions. For example, an experimenter can dilute a concentrated acetic acid (compound that causes the pungent smell in vinegar) by adding water until the desired concentration is achieved.
Titration Container
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In a titration process, acids and bases are mixed together until the end point or neutral concentration is achieved. The mixture of acids and bases is done in a drop-wise manner (adding one drop at a time) and must be done in calibrated containers to ensure accuracy; otherwise it will result in a false end-point concentration.
A volumetric flask is calibrated; thereby, it is a preferred container in doing titrations.
Decorative Piece
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A volumetric flask, aside from its laboratory-related functions, may also be used as a decorative piece at home. It may be filled with colorful powders, glasses, stones and glitters for display purposes.
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