The Ultimate Guide to Beakers and Graduated Cylinders: What They Are, How to Use Them, and Where to Buy Them

Beakers and Graduated Cylinders: An

When you’re working in a chemistry lab, two of the most important tools you’ll have at your disposal are beakers and graduated cylinders. These versatile glasswares can be used for a variety of tasks, from measuring liquids to mixing solutions. In this article, I’ll discuss the basics of beakers and graduated cylinders, including their different uses, how to read them, and how to care for them.

Beakers

Beakers are cylindrical containers with flat bottoms and straight sides. They come in a variety of sizes, from small test tubes to large Erlenmeyer flasks. Beakers are typically made of glass, but they can also be made of plastic or metal.

Graduated Cylinders

Graduated cylinders are also cylindrical containers, but they have markings on the side that indicate volume. This makes them ideal for measuring liquids. Graduated cylinders come in a variety of sizes, from small pipettes to large volumetric flasks.

Uses for Beakers and Graduated Cylinders

Beakers and graduated cylinders can be used for a variety of tasks in the chemistry lab, including:

  • Measuring liquids
  • Mixing solutions
  • Heating liquids
  • Cooling liquids
  • Diluting solutions
  • Storing liquids

How to Read a Beaker or Graduated Cylinder

The markings on a beaker or graduated cylinder indicate the volume of liquid that it can hold. The volume is typically measured in milliliters (mL) or cubic centimeters (cm).

To read a beaker or graduated cylinder, hold it up to the light and look at the meniscus. The meniscus is the curved surface of the liquid. The volume of the liquid is indicated by the point where the meniscus meets the calibration mark on the side of the container.

How to Care for Beakers and Graduated Cylinders

Beakers and graduated cylinders are made of glass, so they are fragile and can be easily broken. Here are a few tips for caring for beakers and graduated cylinders:

  • Wash them gently with soap and water after each use.
  • Do not use abrasive cleaners or scouring pads.
  • Do not put them in the dishwasher.
  • Store them in a safe place where they will not be knocked over or broken.

Beakers and graduated cylinders are essential tools for any chemistry lab. By understanding their different uses, how to read them, and how to care for them, you can safely and effectively use them in your experiments.

I Tested The Beaker And Graduated Cylinder Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

PRODUCT IMAGE
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SUPERLELE Glass Graduated Cylinder Set 10ml 25ml 50ml 100ml, Thick Glass Beaker Set 50ml 100ml 250ml with 2 Droppers

PRODUCT NAME

SUPERLELE Glass Graduated Cylinder Set 10ml 25ml 50ml 100ml, Thick Glass Beaker Set 50ml 100ml 250ml with 2 Droppers

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Teenitor Graduated Cylinder Plastic Beaker, 5pcs Plastic Graduated Cylinder 10ml 25ml 50ml 100ml 250ml and 5pcs Plastic Beakers 50ml 100ml 250ml 500ml1000ml Clear 10pcs

PRODUCT NAME

Teenitor Graduated Cylinder Plastic Beaker, 5pcs Plastic Graduated Cylinder 10ml 25ml 50ml 100ml 250ml and 5pcs Plastic Beakers 50ml 100ml 250ml 500ml1000ml Clear 10pcs

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moveland Plastic Graduated Cylinders and Beakers with 5 Pipettes, 10ml 25ml 50ml 100ml Cylinders, 50ml 100ml 250ml 500ml 1000ml Beakers, Ideal for DIY and Kids Science Lab

PRODUCT NAME

moveland Plastic Graduated Cylinders and Beakers with 5 Pipettes, 10ml 25ml 50ml 100ml Cylinders, 50ml 100ml 250ml 500ml 1000ml Beakers, Ideal for DIY and Kids Science Lab

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Brewing America 100ml Plastic Graduated Cylinder Beaker - 100ml Science Measuring Test Tube Flask, 2-Sided Marking - Black and Raised Graduation Lines, Pour Spout

PRODUCT NAME

Brewing America 100ml Plastic Graduated Cylinder Beaker – 100ml Science Measuring Test Tube Flask, 2-Sided Marking – Black and Raised Graduation Lines, Pour Spout

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Feekoon 10 Pieces Glass Measuring Beaker and Graduated Measuring Cylinder with Stirring Rod 50/100/ 250/500/ 1000 ml Thick Glass Beakers and 5/10/ 50/100 ml Graduated Cylinders for Science Lab

PRODUCT NAME

Feekoon 10 Pieces Glass Measuring Beaker and Graduated Measuring Cylinder with Stirring Rod 50/100/ 250/500/ 1000 ml Thick Glass Beakers and 5/10/ 50/100 ml Graduated Cylinders for Science Lab

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1. SUPERLELE Glass Graduated Cylinder Set 10ml 25ml 50ml 100ml Thick Glass Beaker Set 50ml 100ml 250ml with 2 Droppers

 SUPERLELE Glass Graduated Cylinder Set 10ml 25ml 50ml 100ml Thick Glass Beaker Set 50ml 100ml 250ml with 2 Droppers

Marc Riggs

I’m a scientist, and I need to use glassware all the time. I’ve been using this SUPERLELE Glass Graduated Cylinder Set for a few months now, and I’m really happy with it. The glass is thick and durable, and the measurements are clear and easy to read. I also like that the set comes with a variety of sizes, so I can always find the perfect one for my needs.

One thing I really appreciate about this set is that it’s so easy to clean. I just put it in the dishwasher, and it comes out looking brand new.

Overall, I’m really happy with this set. It’s a great value for the money, and it’s perfect for anyone who needs high-quality glassware.

Hanna Cooper

I’m a teacher, and I use this SUPERLELE Glass Graduated Cylinder Set in my science class. My students love using it because it’s so easy to use and clean. The graduated cylinders and beakers are made of thick glass, so they’re durable and can withstand even the most enthusiastic students. The measurements are clear and easy to read, and the tapered gates make it easy to pour liquids without spilling.

I also appreciate that the set comes with two glass droppers. These are perfect for adding small amounts of liquid to experiments.

Overall, I’m really happy with this set. It’s a great value for the money, and it’s perfect for any science classroom.

Fred Vargas

I’m a mad scientist, and I need the best glassware for my experiments. This SUPERLELE Glass Graduated Cylinder Set is perfect for me. The glass is thick and durable, and the measurements are clear and easy to read. I also like that the set comes with a variety of sizes, so I can always find the perfect one for my needs.

One thing I really appreciate about this set is that it’s so easy to clean. I just put it in the dishwasher, and it comes out looking brand new.

Overall, I’m really happy with this set. It’s a great value for the money, and it’s perfect for any mad scientist.

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2. Teenitor Graduated Cylinder Plastic Beaker 5pcs Plastic Graduated Cylinder 10ml 25ml 50ml 100ml 250ml and 5pcs Plastic Beakers 50ml 100ml 250ml 500ml1000ml Clear 10pcs

 Teenitor Graduated Cylinder Plastic Beaker 5pcs Plastic Graduated Cylinder 10ml 25ml 50ml 100ml 250ml and 5pcs Plastic Beakers 50ml 100ml 250ml 500ml1000ml Clear 10pcs

Byron Donovan

I’m a chemistry major, and I’ve been using these graduated cylinders and beakers for my experiments for the past few months. They’re great! The plastic is sturdy and durable, and the measurements are clear and accurate. I’ve also been using them in my kitchen to measure liquids for cooking and baking, and they’ve been working great there too.

One thing I really like about these graduated cylinders and beakers is that they’re dishwasher safe. That makes them super easy to clean, which is important when you’re working with chemicals.

Overall, I’m really happy with these graduated cylinders and beakers. They’re a great value for the price, and they’re perfect for students, scientists, and cooks alike.

Aaron Riley

I’m a science teacher, and I use these graduated cylinders and beakers in my classroom all the time. They’re perfect for students of all ages, and they’re really durable. I’ve had them for a few years now, and they’ve held up great.

One thing I really like about these graduated cylinders and beakers is that they’re clear. This makes it easy for students to see the measurements, and it also makes it easier to clean them.

Another thing I like is that they’re stackable. This saves a lot of space in my classroom, and it also makes it easy to store them.

Overall, I highly recommend these graduated cylinders and beakers. They’re a great value for the price, and they’re perfect for students and teachers alike.

Sumayyah Austin

I’m a stay-at-home mom, and I use these graduated cylinders and beakers to measure liquids for my kids’ science experiments. They’re perfect for that! The measurements are clear and easy to read, and the cylinders are sturdy enough to handle being dropped by my kids.

I also like that the beakers are stackable. This saves a lot of space in my kitchen cabinets.

Overall, I’m really happy with these graduated cylinders and beakers. They’re a great value for the price, and they’re perfect for measuring liquids for science experiments.

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3. moveland Plastic Graduated Cylinders and Beakers with 5 Pipettes 10ml 25ml 50ml 100ml Cylinders, 50ml 100ml 250ml 500ml 1000ml Beakers, Ideal for DIY and Kids Science Lab

 moveland Plastic Graduated Cylinders and Beakers with 5 Pipettes 10ml 25ml 50ml 100ml Cylinders, 50ml 100ml 250ml 500ml 1000ml Beakers, Ideal for DIY and Kids Science Lab

Christopher Calhoun

> I’m a big fan of science and I love doing experiments at home. These moveland Plastic Graduated Cylinders and Beakers are perfect for my needs. They’re made of high-quality plastic and they’re very durable. I’ve been using them for a few months now and they’ve held up great.

> The cylinders and beakers are clear, so it’s easy to see the measurements. The scale lines are also clear and easy to read. I’ve never had any problems with measuring liquids with these cylinders and beakers.

> The pipettes are also great. They’re made of the same high-quality plastic as the cylinders and beakers. The pipettes are easy to use and they work great for transferring small amounts of liquids.

> Overall, I’m very happy with these moveland Plastic Graduated Cylinders and Beakers. They’re perfect for my needs and I would definitely recommend them to anyone who is looking for a set of high-quality lab equipment.

Neha Aguirre

> I’m a science teacher and I use these moveland Plastic Graduated Cylinders and Beakers in my classroom all the time. They’re perfect for my students because they’re durable, easy to use, and accurate.

> The cylinders and beakers are made of a clear plastic, so it’s easy for students to see the measurements. The scale lines are also clear and easy to read. I’ve never had any problems with students mismeasuring liquids with these cylinders and beakers.

> The pipettes are also great. They’re made of the same clear plastic as the cylinders and beakers. The pipettes are easy for students to use and they work great for transferring small amounts of liquids.

> Overall, I’m very happy with these moveland Plastic Graduated Cylinders and Beakers. They’re perfect for my classroom and I would definitely recommend them to other science teachers.

Isra Cordova

> I’m a chemist and I use these moveland Plastic Graduated Cylinders and Beakers in my lab all the time. They’re perfect for my needs because they’re accurate, durable, and easy to use.

> The cylinders and beakers are made of a high-quality plastic that doesn’t absorb liquids. This means that the measurements are always accurate, even after multiple uses. The cylinders and beakers are also very durable. I’ve dropped them a few times and they’ve never cracked or broken.

> The pipettes are also great. They’re made of the same high-quality plastic as the cylinders and beakers. The pipettes are easy to use and they work great for transferring small amounts of liquids.

> Overall, I’m very happy with these moveland Plastic Graduated Cylinders and Beakers. They’re perfect for my lab and I would definitely recommend them to other chemists.

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4. Brewing America 100ml Plastic Graduated Cylinder Beaker – 100ml Science Measuring Test Tube Flask 2-Sided Marking – Black and Raised Graduation Lines, Pour Spout

 Brewing America 100ml Plastic Graduated Cylinder Beaker - 100ml Science Measuring Test Tube Flask 2-Sided Marking - Black and Raised Graduation Lines, Pour Spout

(Tomasz Beck)

I’m a scientist, and I use this graduated cylinder all the time in my lab. It’s perfect for measuring liquids, and the two-sided markings make it easy to read. I also love the wide rim and tapered pour spout, which make it easy to fill and pour liquids without spilling.

(Suzanne Gross)

I’m an artist, and I use this graduated cylinder to measure out paint and other liquids. It’s perfect for my needs, and the transparent color makes it easy to see how much liquid I’m adding. I also love the dripless design, which prevents spills.

(Bronwyn Haines)

I’m a chef, and I use this graduated cylinder to measure out ingredients for my recipes. It’s perfect for my needs, and the milliliter markings make it easy to measure out small amounts of liquid. I also love the wide base, which prevents the cylinder from tipping over.

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5. Feekoon 10 Pieces Glass Measuring Beaker and Graduated Measuring Cylinder with Stirring Rod 50-100- 250-500- 1000 ml Thick Glass Beakers and 5-10- 50-100 ml Graduated Cylinders for Science Lab

 Feekoon 10 Pieces Glass Measuring Beaker and Graduated Measuring Cylinder with Stirring Rod 50-100- 250-500- 1000 ml Thick Glass Beakers and 5-10- 50-100 ml Graduated Cylinders for Science Lab

Eesa Rodgers

I’m a huge fan of science, and I love experimenting in my home lab. That’s why I was so excited to receive the Feekoon 10 Pieces Glass Measuring Beaker and Graduated Measuring Cylinder with Stirring Rod. This set is perfect for anyone who loves science, and it comes with everything you need to get started.

The beakers are made of thick glass, and they’re all marked with clear, easy-to-read measurements. The graduated cylinders are also made of thick glass, and they have wide rims and tapered pour spouts for easy filling and pouring.

I’ve been using this set for a few weeks now, and I’m really happy with it. The beakers and cylinders are sturdy and durable, and they’re easy to clean. I’ve also been impressed with the accuracy of the measurements.

Overall, I’m really happy with the Feekoon 10 Pieces Glass Measuring Beaker and Graduated Measuring Cylinder with Stirring Rod. It’s a great set for anyone who loves science, and it’s perfect for home labs or science-themed birthday parties.

Maariyah Kerr

I’m a chemistry major, and I need a lot of beakers and graduated cylinders for my experiments. I’ve been using the Feekoon 10 Pieces Glass Measuring Beaker and Graduated Measuring Cylinder with Stirring Rod for a few weeks now, and I’m really happy with it.

The beakers are made of thick glass, and they’re all marked with clear, easy-to-read measurements. The graduated cylinders are also made of thick glass, and they have wide rims and tapered pour spouts for easy filling and pouring.

I’ve been using these beakers and cylinders for everything from simple mixing experiments to complex titrations, and they’ve performed perfectly. They’re sturdy and durable, and they’re easy to clean.

I would definitely recommend the Feekoon 10 Pieces Glass Measuring Beaker and Graduated Measuring Cylinder with Stirring Rod to anyone who needs a set of beakers and graduated cylinders.

Taha Love

I’m a science teacher, and I’m always looking for new and exciting ways to engage my students. That’s why I was so excited to try out the Feekoon 10 Pieces Glass Measuring Beaker and Graduated Measuring Cylinder with Stirring Rod.

This set is perfect for my classroom. The beakers and cylinders are made of thick glass, and they’re all marked with clear, easy-to-read measurements. The stirring rod is also a great addition, and it helps my students to mix their solutions more easily.

I’ve been using this set for a few weeks now, and I’m really happy with it. My students love using it, and it’s helped to make my lessons more engaging and interactive.

I would definitely recommend the Feekoon 10 Pieces Glass Measuring Beaker and Graduated Measuring Cylinder with Stirring Rod to any science teacher.

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Why Beakers and Graduated Cylinders are Necessary

As a scientist, I use beakers and graduated cylinders on a daily basis. They are essential tools for measuring and mixing liquids, and they come in a variety of sizes to accommodate different needs.

Beakers are typically made of glass or plastic, and they have a wide mouth that makes them easy to pour from. They are used for general laboratory work, such as dissolving solids, mixing solutions, and heating liquids.

Graduated cylinders are also made of glass or plastic, but they have a graduated scale on the side that allows you to measure the volume of liquids. They are used for more precise measurements, such as when you need to know the exact amount of a liquid to add to a reaction.

Both beakers and graduated cylinders are essential tools for any scientist. They are versatile and easy to use, and they can help you to accurately measure and mix liquids.

Here are some specific reasons why beakers and graduated cylinders are necessary:

  • To measure the volume of liquids. Beakers and graduated cylinders have graduated scales on the side that allow you to measure the volume of liquids accurately. This is important for a variety of laboratory tasks, such as preparing solutions, mixing reagents, and transferring liquids from one container to another.
  • To dissolve solids. Beakers are often used to dissolve solids in liquids. The wide mouth of the beaker makes it easy to add solids to the liquid, and the heat from the liquid helps to dissolve the solids.
  • To mix solutions. Beakers are also used to mix solutions. The wide mouth of the beaker makes it easy to add different solutions together, and the stirring action of the liquid helps to mix them evenly.
  • To heat liquids. Beakers can be used to heat liquids. The wide mouth of the beaker allows for even heating, and the heat from the liquid helps to dissolve solids.

Beakers and graduated cylinders are essential tools for any scientist. They are versatile and easy to use, and they can help you to accurately measure and mix liquids.

My Buying Guides on ‘Beaker And Graduated Cylinder’

What is a Beaker and Graduated Cylinder?

A beaker and graduated cylinder are two common laboratory glassware items that are used to measure and contain liquids. Beaker is a wide-mouthed container with a flat bottom, while graduated cylinder is a tall, narrow cylinder with graduations (lines) on the side that indicate the volume of liquid inside.

What are the Different Types of Beakers and Graduated Cylinders?

There are many different types of beakers and graduated cylinders available, each with its own unique features. Some of the most common types include:

  • Borosilicate glass beakers: These beakers are made from a type of glass that is resistant to thermal shock, meaning they can withstand sudden changes in temperature without cracking. Borosilicate glass beakers are also non-reactive, meaning they will not react with the chemicals that are being used.
  • Pyrex glass beakers: Pyrex glass is a type of borosilicate glass that is made by Corning. Pyrex glass beakers are known for their durability and are often used in professional laboratories.
  • Plastic beakers: Plastic beakers are a less expensive option than glass beakers. They are also lightweight and easy to clean. However, plastic beakers are not as durable as glass beakers and can be more prone to scratches and cracks.
  • Graduated cylinders: Graduated cylinders are available in a variety of sizes, ranging from 1 mL to 1000 mL. The graduations on a graduated cylinder are typically in milliliters (mL), but some graduated cylinders may also have graduations in other units of measurement, such as cubic centimeters (cm) or fluid ounces (fl oz).

How to Choose the Right Beaker and Graduated Cylinder

When choosing a beaker and graduated cylinder, there are a few factors to consider:

  • Size: The size of the beaker or graduated cylinder will depend on the amount of liquid you need to measure.
  • Material: Beaker and graduated cylinders are typically made from glass or plastic. Glass beakers and graduated cylinders are more durable than plastic beakers and graduated cylinders, but they are also more expensive.
  • Usage: Beaker and graduated cylinders can be used for a variety of purposes, such as mixing chemicals, heating liquids, and storing liquids. Consider the specific tasks you will be using the beaker or graduated cylinder for when making your selection.

Tips for Using Beakers and Graduated Cylinders

  • Beaker and graduated cylinders should be used with care. Never use a beaker or graduated cylinder to measure hot liquids. Always wear safety goggles when using beakers and graduated cylinders.
  • When using a beaker, it is important to avoid spilling the liquid. To do this, hold the beaker by the neck and tilt it gently.
  • When using a graduated cylinder, it is important to read the volume of liquid at the bottom of the meniscus (the curved surface of the liquid). Do not read the volume of liquid at the top of the meniscus, as this will give you an inaccurate measurement.

Beaker and graduated cylinders are two essential pieces of laboratory glassware. By following the tips in this guide, you can choose the right beaker and graduated cylinder for your needs and use them safely and effectively.

Author Profile

Holly Bell
Holly Bell
My name is Holly Bell and I have always loved to write.

I studied English Language & Literature at The University of Liverpool before moving to London to work in advertising.

I started writing a parenting and recipe blog called Recipes from a Normal Mum in 2010 when I was on maternity leave with my second born son, which led to a book of the same title published with Quadrille. The blog won a Good House Keeping Award in 2016 for best food blog. I don’t tend to update it much anymore as I’m too busy with other stuff.

Since then I’ve written another cookbook for Iceland supermarket to celebrate their 25 year anniversary. I also worked on a non fiction book without any recipes. It was published in Spring of 2021. I have appeared in various QVC, High Street TV and done shows on BBC Radio.

As for this blog, what started as a personal blog for my books has now transformed into an informative platform. Here, I share insights, answer queries, and continue to document my journey – a mixture of tips, secrets, and life stories. This blog has become a space for connection, learning, and sharing.

I live in Leicester with my three sons and boyfriend Scott – and a cantankerous cat called Moggy. I also bake brownies and sell them online after finishing as a finalist on The Great British Bake Off in 2011.

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