Learn the difference between independent and dependent variables with definitions, examples, types, and FAQs. Easy guide for students and biology research.
Gel electrophoresis is mainly used to separate DNA, RNA, and proteins based on their size, charge, and shape. It is one of the cornerstones of molecular biology and biotechnology. Gel electrophoresis is like a molecular sieve that helps scientists “see” and separate biomolecules.
A laboratory water bath is one of the most essential and commonly used instruments in biology, chemistry, medical, and industrial laboratories. It is primarily used for incubating samples at a constant temperature over a long period of time.
A vortex mixer (also called vortexer) is a small, simple, yet very useful laboratory device designed for mixing liquids quickly and efficiently. It works by creating a vortex (whirlpool-like motion) in the liquid, which ensures thorough mixing of contents.
A homogenizer is a very important laboratory and industrial instrument used for preparing uniform mixtures and suspensions. The term “homogenize” literally means “to make the same throughout.” In science, technology, and industries, many processes require samples to be broken down, mixed, or dispersed in such a way that every portion of the mixture has the same composition.
A colorimeter is a laboratory instrument used in colorimetry to measure how much light a solution absorbs or transmits. It helps determine the concentration of colored compounds in a solution by comparing it with a standard reference solution.
An ultracentrifuge is a highly advanced centrifuge that operates at extremely high speeds (60,000–150,000 rpm). It is used to separate very small biological and chemical molecules that cannot be separated by regular centrifuges.
A micropipette is a laboratory instrument designed to measure and transfer very small volumes of liquid (in microliters, µL) accurately and precisely. It is essential for experiments in molecular biology, microbiology, biochemistry, and pharmaceutical sciences.
A laboratory incubator is a heated, insulated chamber designed to provide a controlled environment for the growth, storage, and preservation of biological cultures such as bacteria, fungi, yeast, and mammalian cells.
Thin Layer Chromatography (TLC) is a simple, quick, and effective technique used to separate and identify the components of a mixture. It is performed on a plate coated with a thin layer of adsorbent material (e.g., silica gel, alumina, or cellulose) which acts as the stationary phase.