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.

Tech Tip: How is Agar Used in Labs?

TOPICS:media plates prepared media plates

Cole-Parmer® Potato Dextrose Agar, 500 g jar

Posted By: Cole-Parmer Blog Team January 9, 2015

Cole-Parmer® Potato Dextrose Agar, 500 g jar

Versatile is an apt word for agar as it is found in everything from microbiology cultures to Japanese desserts. Agar is not degraded by bacteria and in labs agar is purified and heated to produce agarose. Agarose is used in electrophoresis for separating and analyzing proteins, DNA, and RNA.

Agar culture media are commonly used for isolation, differentiation, identification, susceptibility, and quality control. Prepared media plates save time and money as they are standardized for consistent performance.

Tech Tip: How is Agar Used in Labs?

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