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.

Genes Day: All about DNA | from Cole-Parmer Blog

April 25 was DNA Day and April is National DNA & Genomics & Stem Cell Education Awareness Month, so Cole-Parmer is taking a closer look at the human genome.

According to Genome.Gov, an organism’s complete set of DNA is called its genome and nearly every cell in the body contains a complete copy of about 3 billion DNA base pairs that comprise the human genome. Genes contain the information that build and maintain an organism’s cells and further pass on genetic traits.

The genetic make-up of an organism and environmental conditions are the focus in examining the root causes of disease. There are five main areas within genomics:

Functional Genomics: the determination of gene function and interaction
Comparative Genomics: the determination of the evolution of species by studying relationships of genomic structures and functions across different species
Structural Genomics: the determination of the protein structure within a given organism in one, two, and three dimensions
Epigenomics: the determination of the methylation patterns, as well as imprinting and packaging of DNA
Pharmacogenomics: the determination of the influence of genetics on drug response by correlating gene expression with the efficacy of a drug

Gene therapy corrects defective genes that may be responsible for diseases. To find out how gene therapy works and some interesting developments (including the role of nanotechnology and gene therapy in cancer, and the results of gene therapy on inherited blindness), go to genomics.energy.gov

As scientists working in genomic research, thermal cyclers, electrophoresis products, spectrophotometers, PCR plates, and sealing films may populate your labs.

Genes Day: All about DNA

Be the first to comment on "Genes Day: All about DNA"

Leave a comment Cancel reply