Nature of Science Laboratory Instruments Science Tools Nature of Science Laboratory Instruments

SCIENCE TOOLS To become successful scientists, we must be able to identify and use scientific instruments or tools. These tools are for collecting data, taking measurements, and recording observations. Scientists use a variety of tools to do investigations.

#1 Triple Beam Balance A tool used to measure the mass of an object. It tells the amount of matter an object contains.

#2 Rubber Dropper/Pipette A tool that can transfer small amounts of liquid.

#3 Beaker An open cylindrical container with a pouring lip. It measures liquid volume or the amount that is being held.

A plastic or glass cylinder used to measure liquid volume. #4 Graduated Cylinder A plastic or glass cylinder used to measure liquid volume. Liquid is measured at its meniscus

#5 Metric Ruler/Meter Stick A measuring tool that is used to measure distance between and the length of objects. It tells how long an object is. In science, we use the metric system (SI)for measuring.

#6 Test Tubes and Rack It is smaller than a beaker and a graduated cylinder It holds liquid, but does not measure it. It is cylindrical in shape. It cannot stand on its own

#7 A Spring Scale A tool used to measure weight in units called Newtons (n)

#8 Safety Goggles Eyewear that protects the eyes during a science experiment or investigation from hazardous or dangerous materials.

#9 A Funnel A tool used to transfer liquids/substances from larger opening containers into smaller ones

#10 Thermometer A tool used to measure temperature. It measures the temperature of air and most liquids. The Greek prefix “therm” means “heat”. Scientists measure temperature using the Celsius scale.

#11 Calculator An electronic device for solving mathematics problems

#12 Computer An electronic tool that performs tasks by processing and storing information.