A crucible is a small porcelain "pot" used for heating substances present in small quantities.  The lid is placed on the crucible to allow only a small amount of air (oxygen, O₂) to combust with the substance being heated.

Crucible tongs are used to handle the crucible.  Keep in mind that a hot crucible has the same appearance as an unheated crucible.

When heating a crucible, the crucible is placed in the center of a clay triangle.  The clay triangle is used to support the crucible.  The clay triangle is then placed in an iron ring and a burner is placed below the crucible.

Pictured below is a proper setup for the heating of a crucible.

Here is a video demonstrating the use of the tongs with the crucible.  The file size is only recommended using a broadband connection

This page was designed by Brian Whitson and Gina Barrier with the assistance of students at Salisbury High School.

For questions or comments, contact Gina Barrier.