INTRODUCTION

Weighing is a frequent step in analytical procedures, and the balance is an essential piece of laboratory equipment. The general information described here applies directly to electronic balances used in analytical procedures. Although many portions of the chapter are applicable to all balances, some are applicable only to analytical balances. This chapter should not be considered all-inclusive, and other sources of information (e.g., the US National Institute of Science and Technology and balance manufacturers) may be useful and applicable when analysts perform a weighing operation or implement a weighing procedure. The information given in this chapter is applicable not only to balances used for materials that must be accurately weighed (see Balances 〈41〉 ) but also to balances used in all analytical procedures.