Erlenmeyer flask, also known as Erlenmeyer flask, is a widely used glassware in chemistry, biology, and other science laboratories. Due to its unique design, which includes a conical body and a narrow neck, it is used to perform many experiments, including stirring solutions, carrying out chemical reactions, and heating liquids.

History of Erlenmeyer flask
The Erlenmeyer flask was invented by German chemist Emil Erlenmeyer in 1861. His goal in designing this device was to create a glass container with features that would allow chemical experiments to be performed more safely and efficiently. Since then, the Erlenmeyer flask has become one of the most widely used laboratory instruments.

What is an Erlenmeyer flask?
An Erlenmeyer flask is a type of glass flask with a conical body and a narrow neck. This design is popular in laboratories for several reasons. The conical shape allows liquids to mix well inside, and the narrow neck prevents liquids from splashing when shaking or heating.

Erlenmeyer flasks are usually made of borosilicate glass, which is highly resistant to heat and chemical changes. These properties make them suitable for use in chemical processes that require high temperatures.

The special design of the Erlenmeyer flask makes it suitable for a variety of laboratory tasks. Here are some of the main features of this device:

Conical body:
The wide body and flat base of the Erlenmeyer flask and its conical top make it possible to mix liquids easily without the possibility of spilling or splashing liquids.
Narrow neck:
The narrow neck of the Erlenmeyer flask prevents rapid evaporation of liquids and prevents air contaminants from entering the solutions. Also, this feature allows the use of a cap or cork to close its opening.
Flat base:
The flat base stabilizes the Erlenmeyer flask on various surfaces and makes it suitable for placing it on heat sources such as a Bunsen burner or a hot plate.
Glass or plastic material:
Many Erlenmeyer flasks are made of borosilicate glass, which is heat and chemical resistant. Some types of Erlenmeyer flasks are also made of plastic and are used for temporary or disposable use.
Volumetric markings:
Some Erlenmeyer flasks have volumetric markings on their body that allow the user to approximately measure the volume of liquids in the container.
Types of Erlenmeyer flasks
Erlenmeyer flasks are made in different types depending on the type of application and the volume required:

Plain Erlenmeyer flasks: Ordinary Erlenmeyer flasks used for stirring, heating, and storing liquids.
Graduated Erlenmeyer flasks: This type of Erlenmeyer flask has markings for measuring the volume of liquids and is suitable for experiments that require high accuracy.
Lidded Erlenmeyer flasks: These types of Erlenmeyer flasks are supplied with plastic or glass lids that are used to prevent evaporation or contamination of materials.

1. Mixing solutions:

The conical shape of the Erlenmeyer flask allows liquids to be mixed easily without spilling or splashing, which is very useful for preparing chemical solutions, reactions, or biological cultures.
2. Heating liquids:

The Erlenmeyer flask is made of heat-resistant materials and can be placed on heat sources such as a flame or a hot water bath. Its narrow neck reduces evaporation of substances during heating.
3. Titration:

In titration experiments, the Erlenmeyer flask is used for precise mixing of solutions and better control of the titration process due to its high stability and narrow neck.
4. Cultivation of microorganisms:

In biology, the Erlenmeyer flask is used for the growth and propagation of microbial cultures such as bacteria or yeast. Its body shape helps to improve air flow and oxygenation of the cultures.
5. Chemical storage:

Erlenmeyer flasks with narrow necks and the ability to close the opening with a cap are suitable for temporary storage of solutions and prevent contamination and evaporation.

1. High safety:
The design of the Erlenmeyer flask makes it highly safe for sensitive and dangerous experiments. The narrow neck and the ability to use a cap allow chemicals to be stored safely without the risk of spilling or splashing.

2. Versatility:
The Erlenmeyer flask is used in many different experiments, from simple experiments such as stirring solutions to complex chemical reactions. This device is one of the multi-purpose tools needed in any chemistry or biology laboratory.

3. Ability to use at high temperatures:
The borosilicate glass used in the manufacture of the Erlenmeyer flask has high resistance to heat and temperature changes. This feature allows you to use the Erlenmeyer flask to heat solutions and carry out chemical reactions at high temperatures.

4. High stability:
The shape of the Erlenmeyer flask base makes it easy to stand on flat surfaces and minimizes the risk of it tipping over. This feature is important to prevent laboratory accidents and increase the safety of working with chemicals.

Comparison of Erlenmeyer with other laboratory containers
Difference between Erlenmeyer and beaker:
A beaker is a cylindrical container with an open mouth that is used for mixing and pouring liquids. Erlenmeyer is more suitable for better control of liquids and preventing evaporation and splashing due to its narrow neck.
Difference between Erlenmeyer and volumetric flask:
A volumetric flask is designed to accurately measure specific volumes of liquids, while Erlenmeyer is more suitable for mixing and chemical reactions and has less measurement accuracy.
Round-bottom flask:
Round-bottom flasks are more used for heating and storing liquids at high temperatures, while Erlenmeyer is more suitable for stirring and mixing liquids under normal conditions due to its narrow neck and stable shape.

Tips for Using Erlenmeyer Flasks
Avoid Overheating:
Although most Erlenmeyer flasks are made of heat-resistant glass, prolonged exposure to extreme heat can damage them. Always use appropriate heat sources.
Choosing the Right Size:
Erlenmeyer flasks come in a variety of sizes, from 50 ml to 1000 ml. Choose the right size based on the volume of liquid you need.
Cleaning and Maintenance:
Clean your Erlenmeyer flask thoroughly after use, especially if you have been working with corrosive chemicals. Some materials require special cleaning methods.