What does a calibration mark on lab glassware mean?

What does a calibration mark on lab glassware mean?

A calibration mark on lab glassware shows the exact volume when the liquid reaches a specific line.

The calibration mark tells you where to fill the glassware so the amount of liquid matches the label, and it is usually placed at the level of the meniscus, the curve the liquid makes. When you pour, you look at the bottom of that curve at eye level to avoid errors caused by looking from above or below. Some glassware is calibrated to contain which means the mark shows the volume held inside, while other pieces are calibrated to deliver which means they show the volume that will pour out. Temperature and cleanliness can change the volume reading, so many marks assume a standard temperature and clean, dry glass.

A common mistake is reading the mark from too high or too low which makes the measurement wrong, so always bring your eye level with the mark; another is ignoring the meniscus which leads to consistent small errors, so read the bottom of the curve; some people forget that glassware can be calibrated to contain or to deliver which affects how you use it, so check the label or instructions before you rely on that one line.

For more videos and resources about using lab glassware and reading calibration marks check out www.gumballdegree.com.

Reading Calibration Marks on Glassware

1. Fill to the calibration line
2. Read at eye level
3. Read bottom of meniscus
4. Know contain versus deliver
5. Account for temperature effects

Common Calibration Mistakes in Glassware

1. Reading mark from wrong angle
2. Ignoring the meniscus curve
3. Confusing contain versus deliver

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