Test tubes are used in laboratories to perform a huge range of scientific tasks and tests. Experiments are performed in the controlled conditions of the test tubes so that, if the experiment is successful, they can go on to put the techniques into use. Arguably, test tubes are the scientist’s most essential tool. The shape of test tubes means that the reaction can take place out of the air and in a controlled surrounding, and the test tubes can be shaken without spilling anything from the test tubes. The fact that test tubes are made from transparent glass is clearly so the lab technician or scientist can be right there to see the reaction first hand.

Test tubes are made from glass because glass is defect free and very strong, and glass test tubes will not react with substances that are put into them. Test tubes are also put through changing temperatures and they have to withstand it. Test tubes can break if the extremes are too high or low, and also direct heat can damage them.

Most people remember their school science lessons when they think about test tubes. Holding test tubes into a flame for example to see a reaction take place. Or using test tubes to mix chemicals and see a colour change. Even an extreme bubbling up of liquids within the test tubes is easily containable because the test tubes are so long and you only put a small amount of substance into the test tubes.

Without test tubes a laboratory would find it impossible to continue; test tubes really are the linchpin of the scientific world. So every laboratory must make sure they have a reliable supply of test tubes through their laboratory equipment supplier.

LSL