Information AboutLaboratory |
| CATEGORIES ABOUT LABORATORY | |
| laboratories | |
|
, 19th Century Physicist and Chemist , in his lab.]] laboratory at the University Of Cologne .]] Linear Accelerator at Argonne National Laboratory .]] A laboratory (informally, '''lab''') is a facility that provides controlled conditions in which Scientific Research , Experiment s, and Measurement may be performed. The title of ''laboratory'' is also used for certain other facilities where the processes or equipment used are similar to those in Scientific Laboratories . These notably include:
Scientific laboratories can be found in School s and Universities , in Industry , in Government or Military facilities, and even aboard Ship s and Spacecraft . A laboratory might offer work space for just one to more than thirty researchers depending on its size and purpose. CHARACTERISTICS OF SCIENTIFIC LABORATORIES Labs used for scientific Research take many forms because of the differing requirements of specialists in the various fields of science. A Physics lab might contain a Particle Accelerator or Vacuum chamber, while a Metallurgy lab could have apparatus for Casting or Refining metals or for testing their Strength . A Chemist or Biologist might use a Wet Laboratory , while a Psychologist's or Economist's lab might be a room with one-way mirrors and hidden cameras in which to observe behavior. In some laboratories, Computer s (sometimes Supercomputer s) are used for either Simulations or the Analysis of Data collected elsewhere. Scientists in other fields will use still other types of laboratories. Despite the great differences among laboratories, some features are common. The use of Workbench es or Countertop s at which the scientist may choose to either sit or stand is a common way to ensure comfortable working conditions for the researcher, who may spend a large portion of his or her working day in the laboratory. The provision of Cabinets for the storage of Laboratory Equipment is quite common. It is traditional for a scientist to record an experiment's progress in a Laboratory Notebook , but modern labs almost always contain at least one computer workstation for data collection and analysis. LAB SAFETY In some laboratories, conditions are no more dangerous than in any other room. In many labs, though, hazards are present. Laboratory hazards are as varied as the subjects of study in laboratories, and might include Poison s; Infectious Agent s; Flammable , Explosive , or Radioactive materials; moving Machinery ; extreme Temperatures ; or High Voltage . In laboratories where dangerous conditions might exist, Safety Precautions are important. Rules exist to minimize the individual's risk, and Safety Equipment is used to protect the lab user from injury or to assist in responding to an Emergency . SEE ALSO EXTERNAL LINKS
|
|
|