Which of the following is an appropriate procedure to renew laboratory glassware before conducting chemical experiments?

• A. Wiping with a dry paper towel only
• B. Thoroughly washing with detergent and rinsing with distilled water
• C. Soaking in tap water overnight
• D. Sterilizing with ultraviolet light alone

Answer: (B)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand the importance of cleaning laboratory glassware: Proper cleaning removes residues and contaminants that could interfere with chemical experiments.
2. Evaluate each option based on its effectiveness in removing contaminants: Wiping with a dry paper towel only removes visible dirt but does not eliminate chemical residues.
3. Consider soaking in tap water overnight: While soaking may loosen some residues, tap water can introduce impurities and is not sufficient for thorough cleaning.
4. Assess sterilizing with ultraviolet light alone: UV light can sterilize but does not remove chemical residues or dirt from glassware surfaces.
5. Conclude that the best procedure is to thoroughly wash the glassware with detergent to remove all residues, followed by rinsing with distilled water to avoid introducing impurities, ensuring the glassware is clean and ready for experiments.