What is a spatula used for in chemistry?

In chemistry, a spatula is a tool used for transferring small amounts of solid chemicals. It typically consists of a flat, narrow blade attached to a long handle. The blade is usually made of stainless steel or other non-reactive materials to prevent contamination of the chemicals being manipulated.

Spatulas are commonly used in a laboratory setting for tasks such as weighing out solid chemicals, scraping residues from containers, and stirring or mixing substances. They are particularly useful for handling powders or crystals, as they allow for precise and controlled transfer of small amounts.

In addition to the traditional flat-blade spatula, there are also specialized spatulas available for specific tasks, such as micro spatulas for handling very small quantities of materials. Spatulas come in a variety of sizes and shapes to accommodate different needs in the chemistry lab.