Skills Page

Wafting
by Kenneth B. Edwards, Class of 2000

General Description:

Wafting is a way of "smelling" a chemical in the laboratory. Because the fumes could be hazardous wafting is a way of smelling the chemical while preventing accidents. It ensures that you don't inhale "pure" vapors.

Method:

Instead of placing your face directly over the chemical, stand at an angle, about six inches away from the chemical. Then while continuing to breathe normally, with numerous swooping motions of the hand, bring the odor of the chemical toward your face. By using this method of smelling chemicals you should reduce the risk of it burning your nose and face.

Warning: If a chemical burns or "smells dangerous," it probably is.

Two memebers of the Freezing Point of a Pure Substance team, Francis and Aldo, wafting.

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Last Modified February 07, 2008