The primary method that you will use to measure the amounts of chemicals is to weigh them--that is, to determine their mass. To do this you use a balance. You'll be learning to use two balances: the Dial-O-Gram balance and an electronic top-loading balance.

These two types of balances are chosen for this particular course for a couple of reasons.  One of the primary reasons is that they are durable. They can be used by many people, even incorrectly at times, and still continue to give adequate values to each person who does use them correctly. You'll learn how to operate these particular balances. The techniques you learn for these are not necessarily applicable to other balances, particularly the more sensitive analytical balances or double-pan balances.

You should know that many other balances are much more delicate than these and can be damaged easily if they are not used correctly. You will need instruction for each new kind of balance you work with.

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E-mail instructor: Eden Francis

Clackamas Community College
©1998, 1999, 2002, 2003 Clackamas Community College, Hal Bender, Eden Francis