Measuring chemicals accurately

Chemicals often need to be measured accurately, otherwise, they may be too weak or too strong and can become a safety hazard.

When measuring solids like powders and granules, use a scoop or measuring spoon:

Use a measuring spoon or scoop with the correct measurement you need.
Take a scoop of the substance so that the substance over-fills the scoop or spoon.
Level the spoon or scoop by taking off the excess with a flat object.

This should give you a fairly accurate measurement.

Repeat these steps for remaining dry (solid) substances if needed.

When measuring liquids:

• always measure the substance on a flat surface

• slowly pour or decant the substance into a measuring cup, glass or cylinder tube until you have the correct amount.

To observe if you have the correct volume make sure that your eye level is at the same level as the substance in the measuring container. You should look at the measurement or graduation from eye level – do not take the measurement from above or below it.

This will give you an accurate reading of the volume of the substance being measured.