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Ostwald Viscosity Tube
Original price was: ₹80.00.₹30.00Current price is: ₹30.00.
Quick answer: An Ostwald viscosity tube is used to measure the viscosity of a liquid by timing how long it takes to flow between two calibration marks through a narrow capillary section.
In use, a fixed volume of the test liquid is drawn up past an upper calibration mark and then allowed to flow back down through the tube’s narrow capillary under gravity alone. The time taken for the liquid level to pass between the upper and lower marks is recorded and used, usually relative to a reference liquid such as water, to calculate the sample’s viscosity. Because viscosity is sensitive to temperature, the tube is normally used inside a constant-temperature water bath to keep conditions consistent between readings.
This straightforward, relative method makes the Ostwald viscometer a widely used tool in physical chemistry teaching and research for comparing the viscosity of different liquids or solutions under controlled conditions.
Technical Specifications
| Parameter | Detail |
|---|---|
| Body material | Laboratory glass |
| Design | U-shaped tube with narrow capillary and two calibration marks |
| Function | Measures liquid viscosity via timed capillary flow |
| Typical use | Physical chemistry viscosity practicals, usually in a temperature-controlled bath |
Applications
- Measuring the relative viscosity of liquids and solutions
- Comparing viscosity of different liquids at controlled temperatures
- Physical chemistry teaching demonstrations of fluid flow properties
- Research investigations into how solute concentration affects viscosity
Care & Handling
- Rinse the tube thoroughly with a suitable solvent and dry completely before switching to a different liquid
- Use a constant-temperature water bath for accurate, comparable readings
- Handle the narrow capillary section carefully as it is a fine, delicate part of the tube
- Check for any residue or blockage in the capillary before each measurement
Why Choose LabEquip
LabEquip supplies physical chemistry glassware alongside our wider lab glassware range and chemistry lab equipment to schools, colleges and research laboratories across India. For bulk or institutional requirements, contact us and our team will help confirm the right setup for your practical work.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is an Ostwald viscosity tube used for?
It is used to measure the viscosity of a liquid by timing how long it takes to flow between two calibration marks through a narrow capillary.
How does the Ostwald viscometer method work?
A fixed volume of liquid is drawn up past the upper mark and allowed to flow down through the capillary under gravity; the time taken to pass between the two marks is used to calculate viscosity, usually relative to a reference liquid such as water.
Why is temperature control important when using this apparatus?
Viscosity changes with temperature, so the tube is normally used inside a constant-temperature water bath to ensure accurate, comparable readings.
Can the tube be used to compare different liquids?
Yes, comparing flow times of different liquids under the same temperature conditions is a standard way to compare their relative viscosities.
How should the tube be cleaned between measurements?
The tube should be rinsed thoroughly with a suitable solvent and dried completely before use with a different liquid, to avoid contaminating the results.
Does LabEquip supply Ostwald viscosity tubes for bulk or institutional orders?
Yes. LabEquip supplies Ostwald viscosity tubes to schools, colleges and laboratories across India, including bulk and institutional orders. Contact us for a quotation.
Last Updated: September 2026
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