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Learn what a conical flask is, including its uses, labeled parts, common types, glass vs plastic options, safety tips and how to choose one.

What Is a Conical Flask? Uses, Diagram & Types

A conical flask is a laboratory vessel with a wide, flat base, sloping sides and a narrow cylindrical neck. Also called an Erlenmeyer flask or titration flask, it is used for mixing, heating, holding, culturing and titrating liquids. Its stable base and narrow opening allow solutions to be swirled with less splashing. What Is a Conical Flask? A conical flask is a flat-bottomed laboratory flask whose body tapers upward into a narrow neck. The shape gives the vessel a low centre of gravity, while the neck helps reduce splashing and evaporation during mixing.Conical flasks are commonly made from borosilicate glass for laboratory work. Plastic versions are also available when low weight, shatter resistance or field use is more important than direct heating.The flask is not intended for highly accurate volume measurement. Its graduations are generally approximate; use a volumetric flask or calibrated measuring vessel when precise preparation is required. Conical Flask Diagram Main parts of a conical flask:A detailed engineering schematic of a 250ml Erlenmeyer flask mapped out on a blueprint grid. Callout lines map every design choice—from the ground glass joint (ST 24/40) and reinforced rim down to the tapered sides meant to keep liquids from splashing everywhere during aggressive swirling. Honestly? Half these specs feel like overkill until…

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