The spelling of the word "beaker" is fairly straightforward when using the International Phonetic Alphabet (IPA) transcription. The IPA for this word is /ˈbiːkə/ which breaks down as follows: the first sound is a long "ē" sound (represented by the symbol /iː/), followed by a hard "k" sound (/k/), and ending with the short "ə" sound (indicated by the symbol /ə/). Remembering this phonetic breakdown can help ensure proper spelling and pronunciation of the word "beaker".
A beaker is a cylindrical glass or plastic container with a flat bottom and a pouring lip that is primarily used in a laboratory setting for holding, measuring, and mixing liquids. It is a common piece of laboratory glassware that is typically made of borosilicate glass, known for its increased durability and resistance to heat and chemical reactions.
The design of a beaker includes a straight-sided cylindrical shape, with a wide opening at the top, which narrows down towards the bottom. This configuration makes it easy to pour liquids, while also facilitating efficient heating and cooling processes. Beakers are available in various sizes, ranging from small capacities of a few milliliters to larger ones that can hold several liters of liquid.
The measurements on a beaker are usually marked along the side, providing approximate volume readings. However, beakers are not considered the most precise instrument for accurate measurements, as they often lack the accuracy of volumetric flasks or graduated cylinders. Instead, they are more commonly used for rough estimations or general mixing purposes.
Due to their versatility and ease of use, beakers find application in a wide range of scientific experiments, including chemistry, biology, and physics. They are commonly employed for tasks such as preparing and diluting solutions, heating and evaporating liquids, conducting reactions, and observing chemical reactions.
A thin glass vessel, with a lip for pouring, used by chemists for heating liquids.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
A large beaked cup or glass; a flagon.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
* The statistics data for these misspellings percentages are collected from over 15,411,110 spell check sessions on www.spellchecker.net from Jan 2010 - Jun 2012.
The word beaker derives from the Middle English term bekir which came from Old Norse bikarr meaning cup or tankard. This, in turn, originates from the Old Saxon word bikar meaning goblet or drinking vessel.