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2.2: Analytical Balances

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Analytical balances are used to measure the mass of a substance.  The instructions describe the use of the balances in the Science Lab Building rooms 270 & 280.  Always record your data to the precision of your instrument.  If you are told to weigh 2 grams and the precision of your instrument is 100 μg, report it as 2.0000g.  

The analytical balance measures the mass of substances to within 0.0001 g

Never pour chemicals on the balance, always use a weighing boat or weighing paper.

Step 1

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Figure 2.2.1: Step 1

 

  • The balance must be dry and contain no extraneous materials that may affect the accuracy of the measurement. 
  • Place the weighing paper onto the balance pan and close the side doors.  To make sure the weight is stable, wait for the mass to stop changing or for a green triangle to appear. 
  • Press the “tare” button to recalibrate the balance to read 0.0000g.  This prevents the mass of the weighing container from being included in the measurement

 

Step 2

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Figure 2.2.2: Step 2

-Open the door and use a spatula to add the substance up to the desired mass.  NEVER PLACE CHEMICALS ON THE BALANCE PAN

-Once again, close the door and then record the mass once the scale has stabilized.

 

Step 3

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Figure 2.2.3: Step 3

-After finishing the measurements, brush the area around the balance pan to clean it of any remaining substance particles or spills. 

-Properly discard the weighing paper.

-Keep the balance room clean!


This page titled 2.2: Analytical Balances is shared under a not declared license and was authored, remixed, and/or curated by Robert Belford.

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