Microwave

What are they and why do we use them? What types are there?

The main function of the microwave is to melt down agar and agarose substances so that they are temporarily liquid and can be poured. Any standard kitchen microwave will do, nothing fancy required.

When do you use?

A microwave is very useful for melting hardened agar for plate pouring.

It can also be used as a less efficient alternative to an autoclave for sterilisation.

A microwave is necessary for melting agarose for Agarose Gel Electrophoresis.

How do you use?

Hopefully your mum taught you, but nothing metal in the microwave!

Never microwave anything airtight. Loosen the cap by half a turn.

Agar/agarose substances can superboil. Be super careful when removing these mixtures from the microwave, use a heat glove and gently shake to disturb the surface tension in order to release any trapped steam.