Operation of the Triple Beam Balance

A triple beam balance is a standard laboratory balance which is used to determine the mass of objects.

1. Adjust all riders, so that each reads zero. Then check to make sure that the pointer, or beam, swings to "zero" on the center mark. If the pointer does not read correctly, then use the "adjustment screw" to obtain the zero reading. ASK YOUR TEACHER TO HELP YOU. Click on the red arrows on the image and have a closer look at the triple beam balance.

Pan - Place the object on the pan of the balance. The 3 beams - The riders on the beams must rest on the notches. The slider is adjusted along the beam to align the beam pointer with the zero center mark. Alignment - A correct mass is obtained when the beam pointer swings to the zero center mark.

2. Warning: Do not place any chemicals directly onto the balance pan or platform. All chemicals, solutions, or compounds should be weighed on a container.

3. After you place the sample onto the pan or platform, move the largest rider across the beam until the pointer drops below the mark. Then move this rider back once. Follow this same procedure for the rest of the smaller riders, until the pointer swings to the zero mark.

4. To record the mass, add the masses shown by each rider. (Note: masses are in grams)

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