Whoever has been to laboratories, be it for professional purposes or even during your science & chemistry project during school must have come across this equipment known as Bunsen Burner. Does it ring any bells? If not then let us remind you. Remember the apparatus that was used to heat different substances in the lab? A Bunsen Burner is a part of that very Apparatus that helps in monitoring the flames. It is nothing but Science Lab Equipment that is used as a heat source in various lab experiments. The base of this equipment is flat, consisting of a straight tube that ends with a chimney on the top to release heat. The air is controlled with the help of a nozzle that allows the appropriate amount of gas required for heating. The air enters the equipment through a point called an air hole that is situated at the bottom of the chimney. This air hole mixes the air with gas to create combustion that is needed to burn fire.
Further, let’s look deep into the applications, uses, and various aspects of a Bunsen Burner:
1) Range: When it comes to Bunsen Burner, it offers a wide range of heat control. By controlling the nozzle one can choose how much heat is needed. It can provide extreme heat and even light flames depending on the requirement of the science equipment and the experiment. The air hole located at the bottom of the tool helps in producing a blue-colored flame.
2) Steps of usage: First things first, never use matches to light the burner. It can be hazardous. Use a lighter with an extended nozzle and then turn on the gas. Before you turn on the gas, don’t forget to check the connections attached to the burner. Close the needle valve of this science lab equipment and light the flame. Then, adjust the flame and heat level as per the requirement of the experiment.
3) Dos & Don’ts: Always use an object to lift, carry or move the burner even if there has been some time after the process. This is because the burner can be still hot after the experiment and could burn your hand if the precautions are not taken. Always remember to shut off the burner once the entire procedure is complete. Let the burner cool off on its own after the experiment. Under any circumstances, do not leave the burner unattended. If any substance gets in contact with an unattended burner might even cause an explosion. Also, never keep the vessel that is being heated in your direction and make sure you involve a hot plate or mantle in case you are heating liquids that are inflammable in nature.
4) Advantages: When it comes to Bunsen Burner, there are a lot of advantages to using this science equipment. First things first, the usage of this tool is extremely simple and convenient. There are no difficult procedures to learn the applications of this burner. However, a person still should follow the utmost precautions. The burner can function with minimal resources such as natural gas & coal gas. It doesn’t need a long requirement of tools. Also, it’s easily available in different sizes so the laboratories can choose according to their convenience.
Also read: Alcohol Burner Uses in Laboratory | Function of Spirit Lamp
