The spelling of the word "conical flask" is derived from its pronunciation. The word "conical" is pronounced /ˈkɒnɪk(ə)l/ which means it has a short "o" sound followed by a long "i" sound. The word "flask" is pronounced /flɑːsk/ with a silent "k" at the end. Together, the word "conical flask" is pronounced /ˈkɒnɪk(ə)l flɑːsk/. This flask is commonly used for laboratory experiments and is shaped like a cone with a narrow top and a wide bottom.
A conical flask, also referred to as an Erlenmeyer flask, is a type of laboratory glassware consisting of a sturdy, transparent, and conical-shaped vessel with a flat bottom, a narrow neck, and a vertical sidearm. This essential tool is commonly used in various scientific disciplines, particularly in chemistry and biology, for a variety of purposes such as holding, mixing, and heating liquids.
The conical shape of the flask is distinguished by its wide base that tapers towards a smaller opening at the top. This design allows for easy swirling and stirring of contents within the flask, preventing the escape of liquids during agitation, since the narrow neck minimizes the risk of spills or splashes. Moreover, the flat bottom ensures stability when placed upon a laboratory bench or other surfaces.
Conical flasks are typically made of high-quality borosilicate glass, which is heat-resistant and can withstand variations in temperature. The glass construction enables the flask to endure heating or cooling without undergoing any structural damage. Additionally, the transparency of the material facilitates clear observations and measurements during experiments.
Due to its versatility and durability, the conical flask plays an integral role in numerous scientific procedures, including titrations, distillations, and creating cultures, among others. Its design and functionality make it a crucial tool for both introductory as well as advanced laboratory work, earning it a prominent place in scientific research and experimentation.
The word "conical" is derived from the Latin word "conus", meaning "cone", and the word "flask" comes from the Old English word "flasce", meaning "bottle" or "container". Therefore, the term "conical flask" combines the shape of a cone with the function of a bottle or container, referring to its distinctive conical shape.