What is a Bunsen Burner?

The Parts of a Bunsen Burner

The entire burner is typically made of metal and it burner sits on the bench via a sturdy base. The main gas inlet at the base of the burner is attached to gas nozzle on a lab bench with the use of a rubber tubing. When the lab gas nozzle is turned on, the gas will flow up into the burner from the base. There are small holes in the vertical tube above the gas inlet to allow air to be admitted into the gas mixture from the sides. Once ignited at the top with a lighter or match, the gas burns at the very top of the burner.

The different parts of a Bunsen burner include:

• Barrel: vertical metal tube connected to base
• Collar: connects the barrel to the base
• Air holes: present in the collar and allow adjustable flow of air into the gas mixture in the barrel
• Gas intake: connects to the gas source at the lab bench via a rubber hose
• Gas valve: regulates flow of gas
• Stand/base: used to set the burner on the bench

More air mixed in with gas allows for a hotter or more combustible reaction (more blue) as more oxygen is mixed in. Again, this air flow is controlled by the air slots or holes in the vertical tube attached to the barrel. The hottest part of the flame is at the tip of the inner flame, while the entire inner flame is the coolest part. An increase in gas flow will increase the flame size; however, more air must also be allowed to mix in to allow the temperature to rise also as more oxygen is needed with increased gas flow.

How to Use a Bunsen Burner?

There are many steps that must be kept in mind before, during, and after the use of Bunsen burner. If these precautions and steps are overlooked, then a large fire hazard can occur which would risk lives of the operator as well as others present in the laboratory.

Before lighting a Bunsen burner:

1. Use correct tubing and inspect all equipment for any damage and replace any equipment as needed.
2. Let everyone in the lab know that a burner will be used.
3. Remove all combustible materials from the area and secure any dangling hair, jewelry, or clothing.