What is the difference between an analytical balance and a precision balance?

An analytical balance provides readability of 0.1 mg or better, while a precision balance typically reads to 0.001 g or 0.01 g. Analytical balances include draft shields and are designed for highly sensitive measurements. Precision balances handle larger samples and are less affected by environmental conditions.

What readability do I need for my lab application?

You need a readability that is at least one-tenth of your smallest sample weight or required measurement increment. For example, measuring 100 mg samples may require 0.01 mg readability, while gram-level work may only need 0.01 g. Selecting higher readability than necessary increases cost without improving results.

Do lab balances need to be calibrated?

Yes, all lab balances require regular calibration to maintain accuracy. Calibration ensures measurements remain traceable to certified standards. Internal calibration simplifies this process by automating adjustments, while external calibration requires manual verification with certified weights. In regulated environments, calibration records must be documented and retained.

What is the difference between readability and repeatability?

Readability is the smallest increment of weight a balance will display. Repeatability is the degree of agreement between multiple measurements of the same mass, on the same balance, under the same conditions.

What is the best way to clean my balance to ensure accurate readings?

Inspect and clean before each use. A flannel cloth or soft brush works well for dusting and light cleaning. Use a non-abrasive cleaner for light spills, and a dry flannel cloth for glass parts. Set a regular maintenance schedule for deep cleaning to ensure optimal performance and instrument longevity.

Can vibration affect the accuracy of my balance?

Yes — even slight vibration from a heavy footstep can affect accuracy. Place the balance on a sturdy benchtop away from high-traffic areas such as hallways, elevators, stairways, and doors. If that placement is not possible, an anti-vibration table should be considered.

5 Frequently Asked Questions about Conductivity

Conductivity measures the electrolytes in a solution. When water is polluted, its conductivity increases. Measuring conductivity can indicate how much pollution is in a water sample. This is tested by the ability of the solution to conduct electric current. From the water we drink to the water we swim in, conductivity is a crucial measurement.

Oakton® Waterproof CON 450 Portable Meter with Probe

How does temperature affect conductivity readings?

It depends on the solution you are measuring. The effect of temperature is greatest in low conductivity (or low ionic strength) solutions. In most cases, there will be a 2% increase per °C for most aqueous solutions. However, organics have very different temperature curves.

How are conductivity and TDS related?

Salts, minerals, and dissolved gases contribute to conductivity, meaning conductivity indicates the amount of dissolved materials in a solution. TDS can give you a fairly accurate measurement when comparing the status of a single source (such as NaCL). Yet when comparing two different types of solutions it may be error-prone. Calibrate the meter using the same dissolved materials that are in the test solution.

What is the difference between conductivity and salinity?

The probe is the same for both, but a salinity meter has a correction factor applied to the reading. The correction factor takes the conductivity reading and converts it to ppm of a specific salt (which varies by manufacturer).

Are conductivity probes interchangeable with meters?

No. The cell constant may be different and the pin configurations are typically different. The type of thermistor used for temperature compensation is also different.

How and when do I need to calibrate the probe?

Use a standard solution in the range of samples you are testing to calibrate the probe. Place the probe in the standard solution, condition, and rinse the probe in a second sample of the standard solution. Then use a third sample of standard solution to calibrate, and adjust the cell constant until the specified value is displayed. Recalibrate when you change ranges or if readings seem inaccurate.

View our selection of conductivity meters and conductivity calibration solutions.

5 Frequently Asked Questions about Conductivity

Be the first to comment on "5 Frequently Asked Questions about Conductivity"

Leave a comment Cancel reply