When heating volatile liquids, constantly stir the solution
with a stirrring bar. Heating without stirring can result in bumping, which
occurs when the solution becomes superheated. When the liquid becomes superheated, very large bubbles form in the solution and can erupt violently.
Always provide for the expansion of a heated gas.
Always be sure that gases evolved during heating can escape to the atmosphere. NEVER heat a substance in a closed vessel!
Always wear appropriate clothing.
Avoid wearing loose clothing in lab. Hot objects could cause
clothing to ignite!
DO NOT work with flammable liquids near a hotplate.
Flammable liquid may ignite when brought close to a hot heating plate.
