stopperi

A stopper, also known as a plug or a bung, is a device used to seal an opening, typically in a container. Stoppers are commonly made from materials such as rubber, cork, plastic, or metal, and their design varies depending on their intended application. The primary function of a stopper is to prevent the contents of a container from escaping or to prevent external substances from entering.

In laboratories, stoppers are essential for sealing test tubes, flasks, and beakers, ensuring the integrity of experiments and preventing contamination or evaporation. They come in various sizes and shapes, including solid stoppers, stoppers with one or more holes for tubing, and specialized stoppers designed for specific types of glassware. Cork stoppers, historically popular, are derived from the bark of the cork oak tree and are known for their compressibility and sealing properties.

Beyond laboratory use, stoppers are found in everyday items. Wine bottles are famously sealed with cork stoppers, though synthetic corks and screw caps are also common alternatives. Industrial applications include sealing pipes, valves, and tanks. In some contexts, a stopper might refer to a device that halts or impedes movement, such as a door stopper or a brake stopper. The term can also be used metaphorically to describe something that brings progress or development to a halt.