
Transfers heat to a compatible vessel. The surface can remain hot after power is removed.
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Laboratory hot plate — reference view
Image: Jeffrey M. Vinocur · Source / original · CC BY 2.5Resized and converted to WebP; original colours retained.
Laboratory hot plate
Heating plate · hotplate stirrer
What is its use?
Heats compatible vessels; some models also provide magnetic stirring.
Tap a number to locate its part. Zoom, drag or use full screen to inspect the reference. Models and graduations can differ; check the actual apparatus used in your laboratory.
How to recognise it.
- Flat heating surface
- Temperature or power controls
- Stable electrical housing
A hotplate stirrer has a separate mixing function; heating alone does not ensure a uniform sample temperature.
Point them out.
Choose a part to bring its numbered marker into view.
The science behind the reading.
Electrical energy heats a surface that transfers heat to the vessel and sample.
Think first. Then reveal.
Explain your answer aloud before opening it.
01Is the dial always the sample temperature?+
No. The control may set power or plate temperature; the sample may differ.
02Why choose compatible vessels?+
Thermal stress, material limits and contact stability affect safe heating.
03Does an unlit plate mean it is cool?+
No. Residual heat can remain after the heater is switched off.
04What does a magnetic stir bar do?+
It couples to the rotating magnetic field in suitable stirrer models and mixes the liquid.
Read the references.
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