A Falcon tube, also known as a conical tube or centrifuge tube, is a type of laboratory consumable widely used in various biological, chemical, and medical research applications. The term "Falcon tube" often refers to the products manufactured by the brand "Falcon," which is now a part of Corning Incorporated. These tubes are designed to hold and contain liquids, solutions, or samples for various laboratory processes such as centrifugation, storage, mixing, and more.
Here is a description of a typical Falcon tube with a 15ml capacity:
Size and Shape: A Falcon tube with a 15ml capacity typically has a conical shape. It resembles a narrow cone with a rounded bottom and a tapered top. This shape makes it suitable for various laboratory procedures, especially centrifugation, where substances can be separated based on their density.
Material: Falcon tubes are commonly made from high-quality polypropylene, which is a durable and chemically resistant plastic. This ensures that the tubes can withstand a wide range of temperatures, chemical reagents, and physical stresses without deforming or breaking.
Capacity: A 15ml Falcon tube can hold up to 15 milliliters (ml) of liquid or sample. This volume capacity makes it suitable for holding moderate amounts of solutions, reagents, and biological samples.
Graduations: Many Falcon tubes come with volume markings or graduations on the side. These markings allow researchers to accurately measure the volume of liquid within the tube without the need for additional measuring equipment.
Lid or Cap: Falcon tubes typically come with a secure-fitting lid or cap. The cap is designed to prevent leakage and contamination of the sample inside. It also allows the tube to be sealed for safe storage or transportation.
Features: Falcon tubes are often designed with features such as a conical bottom, which aids in efficient pellet recovery during centrifugation, and smooth interior surfaces to facilitate complete sample recovery without any residue sticking to the walls.
Versatility: Falcon tubes are used in a wide range of laboratory processes, including sample collection, storage, transport, and preparation. They are compatible with various laboratory equipment, such as centrifuges, vortex mixers, and spectrophotometers.
Sterilization: Falcon tubes are available in both sterile and non-sterile versions. Sterile tubes are essential for applications involving sensitive biological samples or cell cultures.
Compatibility: These tubes can be used with a variety of common laboratory reagents, including acids, bases, and organic solvents, without significant degradation.
Overall, Falcon tubes with a 15ml capacity are versatile and essential tools in the laboratory, contributing to various scientific experiments, diagnostic procedures, and research studies. They provide a convenient and reliable means of containing and manipulating liquids and samples in a controlled environment.
