What is the Difference Between Volumetric Pipette and Graduated Pipette?

The main difference between volumetric pipettes and graduated pipettes lies in their accuracy, measurement capabilities, and use cases. Here is a comparison of the two types of pipettes:

Volumetric Pipettes:

• Allow for the measurement and transfer of a specific (fixed) volume of liquid.
• More accurate than graduated pipettes, especially for delivering solutions.
• Narrow neck allows for more precise meniscus readings.
• Use milliliters as the unit of measurement, with volumes ranging from 1ml to 50ml.
• Best suited for situations where high precision is required.

Graduated Pipettes:

• Allow for the measurement and transfer of a range of volumes, with labeled volume increments alongside the tube.
• Less accurate than volumetric pipettes, especially for delivering solutions.
• Ideal for large amounts of solutions where accuracy is not the priority.
• Made from plastic or glass tubes, with a tapered tip and graduation markings indicating volume.
• Tolerances range from ±0.6% to ±0.4% of the nominal volume when measured at 20 °C.

In summary, volumetric pipettes are more accurate and suitable for precise measurements, while graduated pipettes are more versatile and can measure a range of volumes. However, graduated pipettes are less accurate and are ideal for situations where high precision is not necessary.

Comparative Table: Volumetric Pipette vs Graduated Pipette

Here is a table comparing the differences between volumetric pipettes and graduated pipettes:

In summary, volumetric pipettes are more accurate and measure only a specific volume, while graduated pipettes can measure a range of volumes but are less accurate. Both pipettes are used to transfer small, measurable amounts of liquid solutions, but their applications and accuracy levels differ.