Weighing Scale

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

A weighing scale is used to measure the weight of things in the lab. It is necessary for mixing buffers, stock solutions, and media in the correct proportions. It is also useful for balancing a centrifuge.

Weighing scales vary in accuracy and enclosure type. You will need a scale accurate to at least 0.01 g, but ideally one accurate to 0.001 g. An enclosed weighing area prevents air disturbances from affecting the mass on the scale, but isn’t necessary for most protocols.

When do you use?

Any time you need to know how much something weighs!

How do you use?

Zero the balance by pressing the ‘Tare’ button while nothing is on the scale. Alternatively you can zero with an empty vessel of the type you are using in order to subtract its weight from the final measurement.

Once zero’d put the item you wish to measure in the centre of the platform and record the result once the numer stabilises.