12 Chem 147.

2: Analytical Chemistry 1 (Laboratory)

Exercise No. 1:
Introduction to the
Analytical Balance
Introduction
Precision weighing-or properly speaking, the accurate measurement of mass
– is a foundation stone of modern science (Paselk, 2000). An example of
equipment that could provide one with a precise weight is an analytical
balance. Analytical balances are the most basic tools of quantitative analysis.
The balances are able to provide accurate measurements to four decimal
places or 0.0001 grams. Due to the extremely sensitive nature of these
instruments, there are several factors than can cause them to give erroneous
readings (Hill, 2020).
In this experiment precision of weighing made the analytical balance will be
studied and the magnitude of common errors encountered in weighing will be
evaluated.

Learning Outcomes
1. To identify the parts of an analytical balance.
2. To identify errors that affect weight when using an analytical balance.
3. To perform proper basic weighing using an analytical balance.

Materials and Equipment

• Analytical balance • Desiccator
• Crucible • Tray
• Tissue paper • Timer
• Oven • Lint-free cloth
• Tongs/Tweezers

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For instructional purposes only • 1st Semester SY 2020-2021 13

Figure 8. Parts of an Analytical Balance

Connely, A. (2017). The laboratory balance: a practical guide

Procedure

1. Learn the parts of the balance assigned to you. Familiarize yourself with
the balance controls, the knife edges, the beam damping arrangement, the
weights, and the mechanism used to remove the weights from the beam.
2. Press the tare button on the analytical to ensure that the initial reading of
an empty pan is zero.
Note 1: If the analytical balance is a Mettler of Mettler type balance the level bubble should be
checked each time before using.

Note 2: If the level bubble is not exactly centered in the circle inscribed on the glass, adjust the
leveling screws on the base until the level bubble is exactly centered in the circle.

3. Determine the weight of a clean dry crucible (without lid) to within 0.1 mg.
4. Determine the weight of the lid to within 0.1 mg.
5. Determine the weight of the total weight of the crucible plus lid to within
0.1 mg. compare this result with the sum of the separate weights of the
crucible and lid to see how closely the weights agree.
6. Reweigh the crucible minus the lid to see how reproducible the weight is.
7. Roll the crucible around in your hand. Then reweigh and compare the
weight with the previous results. Next wipe the crucible clean with dry lint-
free cloth or with laboratory tissues, reweigh it and compare the weights
with the results in (3).
 14 Chem 147.2: Analytical Chemistry 1 (Laboratory)

8. Hold the crucible an inch from your mouth and breathe on it several times.
Reweight and compare again with (3).
9. Place the crucible in a drying oven for two or three minutes. Remove the
crucible from the oven with your tongs and reweigh while it’s warm. Take
the weight of the crucible every 10 minutes till it reaches balanced
temperature.

Guide questions and instructions on how to prepare

and submit the laboratory report
1. Based on the weights obtained, what can you conclude about the
reproducibility of results made with the balance?
2. List some possible errors in weighing.
3. Name 5 tools/accessories than can help avoid error in weighing.
4. Which is a more accurate balance? Analog or digital? Why?
5. Discuss the difference between precision and accuracy.

Additional Resources

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mmgiehwrK54 (How to use an Analytical Balance)

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CDgoJTgIL80 (Weighing in an Analytical Balance)
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MMDjLInZsZU&t=9s (Analysis and result)

References

Salas, F. (2018). Laboratory Manual in Chem 140.1 Quantitative Chemistry. Leyte

Christian, G. (1980). Analytical Chemistry 3rd edition. New York: John Wiley and Sons.
Day, R., & Underwood, A. (1982). Quantitative Analysis. Englewood Cliffs, NJ: Prentice Hall.
Hill, K. (2020, January 28). Factors Affecting Analytical Balances. Retrieved August 24, 2020,
from Quality Scales Unlimited: https://www.scalesu.com/factors-affecting-analytical-
balances/
Paselk, R. (2000, September 13). Care and Use of Analytical Balances. (Fulcrum Inc.) Retrieved
August 24, 2020, from Humbolds State University Department of Chemistry:
https://www2.humboldt.edu/scimus/Instruments/AnalBal-CB/CBAnalBal.html
Truman State University. (2013, August 19). Truman State University Chem 222 Lab Manual.
Retrieved August 24, 2020, from Truman State University:
https://chemlab.truman.edu/files/2015/07/Chem222balance.pdf

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Vision: A globally competitive university for science, technology, and environmental conservation.
Mission: Development of a highly competitive human resource, cutting-edge scientific knowledge TP-IMD-04
V0 07-15-2020
and innovative technologies for sustainable communities and environment.
No.