Contents
- Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ’s)
- Q1. What are some of the most prevalent forms of micropipettes?
- Q2. What is the proper way to calibrate a micropipette?
- Q3. What is the difference between pipette accuracy and precision?
- Q4. How can I pick the best micropipette for my needs?
- Q5. Why is it critical to use the proper tip with a micropipette?
- Q6. Can I sterilize micropipettes with an autoclave?
Pipettes and micropipettes are scientific devices that are used to precisely measure and transfer small amounts of liquid. They are useful in a variety of scientific disciplines, including biology, chemistry, and molecular biology. These tools are critical in experiments where precision and reproducibility are critical.
A pipette is a scientific equipment for precisely measuring and transferring a certain volume of liquid from one container to another. Pipettes are classified into several varieties, each built for a distinct use and volume range. They are critical equipment in scientific research, clinical laboratories, and other contexts where precision liquid handling is required. Pipettes are available in a variety of volume capacities, ranging from microliters (L) to milliliters (mL). The pipette used is determined by the volume of liquid that needs to be transferred or measured. Pipettes are employed in a wide range of scientific applications, including chemistry, biology, and medicine. Pipettes are used by researchers and personnel for tasks such as sample preparation, experimentation, and accurate liquid measurements. Pipettes are classified as either manual or electronic. Manual pipettes need the operator to physically aspirate and dispense liquids, whereas electronic pipettes contain electrical controls that allow for more exact and repeatable dispensing.
Micropipettes are scientific tools used to precisely measure and transfer very minute amounts of liquid. These devices are essential in scientific study, particularly in domains such as molecular biology, biochemistry, and microbiology, where working with precise amounts of liquids is required. Micropipettes are intended for handling volumes in the microliter (L) range. Volume ranges that are commonly used are 0.1-10 L, 20-200 L, and 100-1000 L.A piston-driven system powers micropipettes. A vacuum is formed when the plunger is depressed, allowing a particular volume of liquid to be pulled into the disposable tip. The liquid is dispensed by releasing the plunger. Micropipettes are noted for their great accuracy and precision, which is critical for applications where even little volume errors can affect the outcome of an experiment. Micropipettes are commonly employed in laboratory processes such as DNA amplification (PCR), DNA sequencing, protein assays, cell culture work, and other applications requiring careful manipulation of small amounts.
S.No. |
Aspects |
Pipettes |
Micropipettes |
1 |
Volume Range |
Higher volume capacity |
Lower volume capacity |
2 |
Precision |
Less precise |
More precise |
3 |
Applications |
Used for larger liquid volumes |
Used for precise small volumes |
4 |
Mechanism |
Operated manually |
Often electronically operated |
5 |
Usage |
Common in chemistry |
Common in molecular biology |
6 |
Calibration |
May require frequent calibration |
Typically calibrated regularly |
7 |
Cost |
Relatively less expensive |
Often more expensive |
8 |
Types |
Available in various types |
Limited types available |
9 |
Disposable Options |
Limited availability |
Often available |
10 |
Viscous Liquids |
Not suitable for highly viscous liquids |
Can handle some viscous liquids |
11 |
Accuracy |
Lower accuracy |
Higher accuracy |
12 |
Material |
Can be made of various materials |
Often made of plastic or metal |
13 |
Maintenance |
Relatively easier maintenance |
Requires careful maintenance |
14 |
Liquid Transfer |
Suitable for bulk liquid transfer |
Designed for precise transfer |
15 |
Graduations |
Usually has larger gradations |
Often has finer gradations |
16 |
Sterilization |
Can be autoclaved |
Often not suitable for autoclaving |
17 |
Ergonomics |
Typically less ergonomic design |
Designed for ergonomic handling |
18 |
Common Usage Volume |
Higher volumes typically used |
Smaller volumes commonly used |
19 |
Specialized Variants |
Limited specialized options |
Various specialized options available |
20 |
Accuracy of Dispensing |
Less accurate for small volumes |
Highly accurate dispensing |
21 |
Liquid Handling |
Generally for general liquid handling |
Primarily for delicate handling |
22 |
User Skill Requirement |
Relatively easier to use |
Requires more precise handling |
23 |
Sample Contamination |
More prone to contamination |
Reduced risk of contamination |
24 |
Pipetting Techniques |
Fewer specialized techniques |
Often requires specific techniques |
25 |
Interchangeable Parts |
Parts not often interchangeable |
Interchangeable parts available |
26 |
Cleaning |
Relatively easier to clean |
Requires careful cleaning |
27 |
Pipetting Speed |
Generally slower |
Can be faster and more precise |
28 |
Risk of Evaporation |
Higher risk of evaporation |
Lower risk of evaporation |
29 |
Operating Principle |
Relies on manual suction |
Relies on air displacement |
30 |
Sample Types |
Suitable for various types of samples |
Primarily for specific samples |
31 |
Common Brand Names |
Gilson, Eppendorf, and others |
Eppendorf, Gilson, and others |
32 |
Usage in Experiments |
Used in various laboratory experiments |
Primarily used in molecular biology experiments |
33 |
Common Errors |
Primarily related to imprecise measurements |
Often related to improper handling |