Beaker Meaning and Definition
Beaker
Pronunciation
/ˈbiːkər/
Part of Speech
Noun
Definition
A beaker is a cylindrical, open container made of glass or plastic, with a flat bottom and a round body, commonly used in scientific laboratories for mixing and holding liquids or solids.
Examples
1. “She poured the solution into the beaker for further analysis.”
2. “The beaker was filled with distilled water and placed under the fume hood.”
Synonyms
1. flask
2. chemvat
Antonyms
1. airtight container
2. sealed flask
Additional Information
Beakers are available in a range of sizes and materials, including glass, plastic, and polycarbonate. They are commonly used in various fields such as chemistry, biology, and medicine. Beakers are often sterilized before use, especially in clinical settings. The open design of beakers allows for easy observation of the contents and facilitates pouring and measuring. Their simplicity and versatility have made them a staple in scientific research and laboratories around the world.
Beakers are also used in educational settings to teach students about chemistry and laboratory techniques. In some cases, beakers are used as Erlenmeyer flasks, which have a conical shape and are used for mixing and precipitation reactions.
The use of beakers dates back to ancient civilizations, where they were made from clay or metal. However, the modern glass beaker has become the most widely used and preferred material in scientific applications.
When choosing a beaker, scientists and researchers consider factors such as size, material, and accuracy. Beakers can be used for various purposes, including mixing, measuring, and storing chemicals. They are an essential tool in many laboratories and are used alongside other equipment such as pipettes, test tubes, and balances.
Beakers can be cleaned and sterilized with soap and water, followed by autoclaving to ensure they are free from contaminants. The regular maintenance of beakers is crucial to prevent the buildup of residues and contamination of samples.
Beakers are also used in non-scientific industries such as food and beverage processing, where they are used for mixing and holding ingredients. They are also used in various industries such as pharmaceuticals, cosmetics, and food testing laboratories.
The importance of beakers in scientific research cannot be overstated. They have revolutionized the way scientists conduct experiments and has made significant contributions to our understanding of the world.
Etymology
The word “beaker” traces back to the Middle English term “bekere,” which referred to a type of container. Over time, the term evolved to refer to the cylindrical container we know today.
Usage Notes
Beakers are used in various contexts, including scientific research, education, and industry.
When using beakers, it is essential to handle them with care to avoid breakage or contamination.
Beakers are commonly used in laboratory settings for mixing, measuring, and storing chemicals.
Cultural References
The word “beaker” appears in various forms of media, such as literature and film.
Beakers have been featured in popular culture as a symbol of scientific research and experimentation.
Idiomatic Expressions or Phrases
The phrase “beaker-full of acid” is an idiomatic expression meaning a large amount of something.
Related Words or Phrases
Related words include “flask,” “chemvat,” “test tube,” and “pipette.”
Collocations
Common collocations include “beaker and stirrer,” “beaker and flask,” and “beaker and pipette.”
Frequency of Use
The word “beaker” is commonly used in scientific and laboratory settings.
Common Misspellings
Misspellings include “bekar,” “beaker,” and “beakir.”