Another solution to the stopper-in-the-bottle problem

Another Solution to the Stopper-in-the-Bottle Problem A recent note in the Journal [J. CHEM. EDUC. 54,384 (1971)] recommends the use of toluene soaking fallowed by dissection of rubber stoppers inadvertently pushed into bottles or flasks. This is unnecessary, and some stopper materisk are recalcitrant to the attack of toluene. Instead, use glycerine. Make an extractor by bending the tip of a "Scoopula" (T. M. Reg. by Fisher Scientific Co.) to a right angle. About 6 mm should be bent over. Insert this bent tip in the bottle, invert, and shake until the stopper falls into position with the smaller end in the neck. A pull on the "Scoapula"" easily withdraws any stopper that can be got in a bottle. Alfred R. P r a y Pennsylvania State University Dunmore, 18512

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