What is the most common material used in the laboratory?

Borosilicate glass is widely regarded as the most common material used in laboratories due to its unique properties that make it ideal for various scientific applications. This type of glass is specifically designed to withstand high temperatures and abrupt temperature changes without breaking, making it essential for tasks involving heating and cooling of materials, such as boiling liquids or conducting chemical reactions.

Additionally, borosilicate glass is chemically resistant, which means it can handle a wide range of substances without being adversely affected by chemical interactions. This feature is crucial when working with reactive chemicals or solutions. The ability to be inert and maintain structural integrity in diverse laboratory conditions ensures that borosilicate glass is a safe choice for laboratory equipment like beakers, flasks, and test tubes.

The other materials mentioned, while useful in specific contexts, do not provide the same level of thermal and chemical resistance as borosilicate glass. For instance, quartz glass is often used in high-temperature applications but is not as versatile for everyday laboratory use. Plastic is lightweight and less expensive but may not withstand high temperatures or resist all chemicals as effectively. Soda-lime glass is more commonly used for everyday glassware in non-technical settings, but it lacks the durability and chemical resistance of borosilicate