JCE Software Chemistry Comes Alive!
Stirrer Turned on Too Soon

If the stirrer is already on when the sample and stir bar is place on it, jumping and splashing result.

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The demonstration on this page shows a technique that should not be used by undergraduate chemistry laboratory students.

Discussion

Stirring with a hot plate/magnetic stirrer requires that a magnetic stir bar be placed in the solution. Select a magnetic stirring bar that fits within the container, but is also large enough to thoroughly mix the solution. Place the magnetic stir bar into the flask or beaker by gently sliding it along the wall of the vessel. Dropping the stir bar into a flask can crack or break the container.

Narrative

If the stirrer is on when the flask is placed on it, the stir bar may jump uncontrollably splashing the sample.