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Flaming the mouth of a test tube creates an air flow. Hot air rises. Therefore dust/particles in the air are less likely to fall into your tube.
There is some controversy as to the value of this action. The hot air will also create eddy currents across the mouth of the tube or flask which may actually increase the opportunity for contamination. If there is some data which supports either view, I would like to see it. In my opinion, the reason behind flaming the mouth of a test tube has not been proven, it is just taken to be dogma.
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What happened when you place a lighted match near the mouth of the test tube?
It depends on what is inside the test tube. If the test tube is empty nothing will happen, if there is petrol in the test tube the petrol will ignite.
In heating chemicals in a test tube where should the mouth of the test tube point?
The mouth of the test tube should be pointed away from yourself and others to prevent any splashes or fumes from coming into contact. This is important for safety measures and to avoid any potential accidents during the heating process.
Why should you never shake a test tube containing reagents by covering its mouth with a finger?
You should never shake a test tube containing reagents by covering its mouth with a finger because doing so can create pressure buildup within the test tube. This pressure can cause the test tube to explode, leading to potential injury from flying glass shards and exposure to hazardous chemicals. It is safer to use a stopper or cap to secure the test tube before shaking to prevent any accidents.
Why substance stick to the test tube?
Substances can stick to the surface of a test tube due to adhesion, which is the attraction between the molecules of the substance and the molecules of the test tube material. This adhesion can be influenced by factors such as the surface properties of the test tube and the characteristics of the substance itself.
What are two safety rules you should follow when heating liquid in test tubes during an investigation?
Always wear safety goggles to protect your eyes from potential splashes or spills. Use a test tube holder to handle hot test tubes to avoid burns or injuries.
