Bunsenpolttimiin

Bunsenpolttimiin is a type of laboratory burner that produces a single open gas flame, used for heating, sterilization, and combustion. It was invented by German chemist Robert Bunsen and English chemist Charles Timothy in 1855. The burner consists of a metal tube attached to a gas supply, with an adjustable collar near the base of the tube that controls the air intake.

The Bunsen burner operates by mixing fuel gas, such as natural gas or propane, with air before ignition. The amount of air entering the tube can be adjusted by rotating the collar. If the collar is fully open, a large amount of air is mixed with the gas, resulting in a hot, non-luminous, blue flame. This is the hottest setting and is ideal for most heating purposes. If the collar is partially or fully closed, less air is mixed with the gas, producing a cooler, luminous, yellow flame. This yellow flame is visible due to unburnt carbon particles glowing incandescently, and it produces soot.

The blue flame of a Bunsen burner is often referred to as the "oxidizing flame" because it has an excess of air, while the yellow flame is referred to as the "reducing flame" due to the presence of unburnt carbon. Bunsen burners are commonly found in chemistry labs, biology labs, and educational institutions for a wide range of experimental procedures. Safety precautions are important when using a Bunsen burner, including ensuring it is placed on a stable surface, keeping flammable materials away, and always extinguishing the flame when not in use.