Pipetting: Selecting and Using Micropipettes Virtual Lab

This short, targeted simulation is adapted from the full-length “Pipetting: Master the technique” simulation.

Micropipettes are the extended arms of every aspiring scientist. In this simulation, you will be introduced to the basics of pipetting as you dive right into trying your new skill out in the lab. Step by step, you will learn how to adjust the volume on the P20, P200, and P1000 pipette, use the two ‘stops’ of the plunger and find out which pipette to use for which volume range. You will also learn some tricks about pipetting more accurately in the microliter range. Will you be able to select the correct micropipette when you are given the challenge to do so?

Try out the P1000 Micropipette

After your introduction, you will be able to get hands-on experience with the P1000 micropipette, exploring all its parts and functions. While selecting the right pipette tip to P1000, you will also learn the importance of sterile work. You will get to explore the measuring range of a calibrated P1000 pipette by using the thumbwheel and practice aspirating and dispensing by adding a common buffer to a fresh microcentrifuge tube.

Become a master of pipetting

You will learn about the benefits of microscale experimentation to understand why micropipettes are essential instruments for laboratory work. In our virtual labs, we use air-displacement pipettes that aspirate and dispense liquid samples. For the best pipetting technique, you will first learn about the two stops on the plunger, the measurement ranges of P20, P200, and P1000 pipettes and interpret the volume display of micropipettes. This knowledge is essential if you want to accurately and precisely measure small volumes in a laboratory setting.

Select the correct micropipette Finally, you will be presented with a challenge to choose the correct micropipette for a hypothetical task. Will you be able to decide between the P20, P200, or the P1000 for the most accurate pipetting?