Scribd
Upload
3 views

Commonly Used Laboratory Apparatus in Biotech

Uploaded by

noezachsadio
Copyright
© © All Rights Reserved
We take content rights seriously. If you suspect this is your content, claim it here.
Available Formats
Download as PPTX, PDF, TXT or read online on Scribd
3 views

Commonly Used Laboratory Apparatus in Biotech

Uploaded by

noezachsadio
Copyright
© © All Rights Reserved
We take content rights seriously. If you suspect this is your content, claim it here.
Available Formats
Download as PPTX, PDF, TXT or read online on Scribd
You are on page 1/ 16

COMMON LABORATORY APPARATUS

USED IN BIOTECHNOLOGY
List of Some Commonly Used Laboratory
Apparatus in Biotechnology
1. Micropipettes
Purpose: Used to measure and transfer very
small volumes of liquids, typically in microliters
(µL).
Details: Micropipettes are essential for tasks like
preparing DNA, RNA, and protein samples. They
come in various volume ranges (e.g., 0.1–10 µL,
10–100 µL, etc.).
2. Centrifuge
Purpose: Used to separate components in a
liquid by spinning samples at high speeds.
Details: Centrifuges are crucial for tasks such as
isolating cells, DNA, and proteins from a
mixture. They can vary in size from small
benchtop models to large floor-standing units.
• 3. PCR Machine (Thermocycler)
• Purpose: Used to amplify DNA sequences
through the Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR).
• Details: A PCR machine cycles through
different temperatures to allow DNA
denaturation, annealing, and extension,
making it fundamental for genetic research
and diagnostics
4. Electrophoresis Apparatus
Purpose: Used to separate DNA, RNA, or protein
molecules based on size and charge.
Details: This setup typically includes a gel
(agarose or polyacrylamide) and an electric field,
allowing for the visualization of molecules after
separation.
5. Autoclave
Purpose: Used for sterilizing laboratory
equipment and media.
Details: Autoclaves use steam under high
pressure to kill bacteria, viruses, fungi, and
spores, ensuring that laboratory conditions are
sterile.
6. Spectrophotometer
Purpose: Used to measure the absorbance or
transmittance of light by a sample.
Details: This device is often used to quantify
nucleic acids, proteins, or bacterial cultures by
measuring the intensity of light at specific
wavelengths.
7. Laminar Flow Hood (Biosafety Cabinet)
Purpose: Provides a sterile working environment
by filtering air to prevent contamination.
Details: These hoods are essential when working
with cell cultures or other sensitive biological
samples to prevent contamination.
8. Incubator
Purpose: Used to grow and maintain
microbiological or cell cultures.
Details: Incubators control temperature,
humidity, and sometimes CO₂ levels to create an
optimal environment for cell growth.
9. Microscope
Purpose: Used to visualize small objects, such as
cells or microorganisms, that cannot be seen
with the naked eye.
Details: Common types include light
microscopes, fluorescence microscopes, and
electron microscopes, each offering different
levels of magnification and resolution.
10. Water Bath
Purpose: Used to incubate samples at a constant
temperature.
Details: Water baths are often used for reactions
that require a specific temperature, such as
enzyme reactions or DNA denaturation.
11. pH Meter
Purpose: Used to measure the acidity or
alkalinity of a solution.
Details: Accurate pH measurement is crucial in
preparing buffers and culture media in
biotechnology.
12. Shaker
Purpose: Used to mix or agitate samples in
flasks, tubes, or microplates.
Details: Shakers can be orbital, reciprocating, or
rocking and are used for tasks like growing cell
cultures or mixing reagents.
13. Flow Cytometer
Purpose: Used to analyze the physical and
chemical characteristics of cells or particles in a
fluid as they pass through at least one laser.
Details: Flow cytometry is critical for cell
counting, sorting, and biomarker detection in
research and clinical laboratories.
14. Fume Hood
Purpose: Used to safely carry out chemical
reactions by drawing away harmful fumes.
Details: Fume hoods protect the user from
inhaling toxic fumes or vapors during
experiments involving volatile substances.
15. Refrigerator/Freezer
Purpose: Used to store samples, reagents, and
media at controlled temperatures.
Details: In biotechnology, different samples
might require storage at temperatures ranging
from -20°C to -80°C or colder.

You might also like