The Bunsen Burner – Lesson Summary

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Learning Objective

In this lesson we will learn about the different parts of a Bunsen burner, and how to use a Bunsen burner correctly and safely in a science laboratory.

Learning Outcomes

By the end of this lesson you will be able to:

  • Identify the different parts of a Bunsen burner.
  • Describe the different Bunsen burner flames and explain when each should be used.
  • Describe the steps involved in the safe operation of a Bunsen burner.

 
the bunsen burner lesson contents

(Image: Kim, Adobe Stock)

Lesson Topics

1 | Introduction to the Bunsen Burner

2 | Parts of a Bunsen Burner

3 | The Bunsen Burner Flame

4 | Procedure for Lighting a Bunsen Burner

5 | Safety Rules when Using a Bunsen Burner

6 | Summary

Lesson Summary

  • The main parts of a Bunsen burner are:
  • The barrel.
  • The base.
  • The air hole.
  • The collar.
  • The gas inlet and rubber hose.
  • There are two types of Bunsen burner flame:
  • The yellow safety flame.
  • ▸ Less hot flame
  • ▸ Highly visible
  • ▸ Use whenever you are not heating something
  • The blue heating flame.
  • ▸ Hotter flame
  • ▸ Harder to see
  • ▸ Use only when you are heating something
  • There is a correct procedure that must be followed every time you light a Bunsen burner:
  • Always wear the correct safety gear.
  • Always light a Bunsen burner with the collar closed.
  • Only turn the gas tap on when a lit match is above the barrel.
  • Always extinguish a Bunsen burner flame by turning off the gas tap.
  • Always follow the safety rules when using a Bunsen burner.
  • Only use a Bunsen burner for the purposes instructed to you by your teacher.

 
Bunsen burner flames

(Image: Jan Fijałkowski, Wikimedia Commons)

(Header Image: biker3, Adobe Stock)