Assay Flask

Description:

The term "assay" implies an analysis for only a certain constituent (or constituents) of a mixture. A good example is the assay of an ore for gold. That sort of assay would be done using a dry method, i.e. heating the ore in a crucible.

An assay can also be performed using a wet method. A good example is the extraction of an alkaloid from dried plant material. The plant sample is placed in a vessel into which a solvent is introduced. The active constituent is separated from the sample and extracted by chemical means.

The flask featured here, with its sloping sides and narrow mouth, is used for the wet assay method. The sample and solvent would be combined in this vessel. Additional apparatus would be used for the separation and extraction of the active constituent.

Location: Currently not on view

See more items in: Medicine and Science: Chemistry, Energy & Power, Science & Mathematics, Artifact Walls exhibit

Exhibition:

Exhibition Location:

Credit Line: Gift of Barbara A. Keppel

Data Source: National Museum of American History

Id Number: 1985.0311.064Catalog Number: 1985.0311.064Accession Number: 1985.0311

Object Name: flask, assay

Physical Description: glass (overall material)Measurements: overall: 168 mm x 89 mm; 6 5/8 in x 3 1/2 inoverall: 6 3/4 in x 3 9/16 in; 17.145 cm x 9.04875 cm

Guid: http://n2t.net/ark:/65665/ng49ca746a0-ea68-704b-e053-15f76fa0b4fa

Record Id: nmah_1208

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