Why would you use weighing paper instead of filter paper for weighing the unknown sample?
Frankly, I wouldn't use either; however, you NEVER use filter paper as weighing paper because the filter paper is rough and the sample can't be transferred off the paper quantitatively,
Weighing paper and filter paper are two different types of paper that serve different purposes in a laboratory setting. Here's an explanation of why weighing paper is used instead of filter paper for weighing unknown samples:
Weighing Paper:
1. Weight: Weighing paper is very lightweight, so it does not contribute significantly to the overall weight of the sample being measured.
2. Absorbency: Weighing paper is designed to have low absorbency, meaning it does not absorb moisture or chemicals from the sample. This ensures accurate weighing by preventing any loss or gain in weight due to absorption.
3. Non-reactive: Weighing paper is usually made from materials such as cellulose or polyethylene, which are chemically inert and do not react with the sample. This prevents any changes in the sample's composition or weight.
4. Easy transfer: Weighing paper is smooth and allows easy transfer of the sample without sticking, ensuring all of the sample is transferred to the weighing instrument.
Filter Paper:
1. Filtration: Filter paper is specifically designed to trap solid particles while allowing liquid to pass through. It is commonly used in laboratory processes involving filtering and separation.
2. Porosity: Filter paper has specific porosity levels that determine the size of particles it can trap. This feature is unnecessary for weighing purposes and may interfere with the accuracy of the weighing measurement.
3. Absorbency: Filter paper has high absorbency to soak up liquids effectively. However, this absorbent nature can affect the sample's weight, leading to inaccurate measurements during weighing.
To ensure accurate weighing, it is best to use weighing paper specifically designed for the purpose of measuring unknown samples.