Laboratory

A laboratory (/ləˈbɒrətəri/ or /ˈlæbərətri/; informally, lab) is a facility that provides controlled conditions in which scientific research, experiments, and measurement may be performed. The title of laboratory is also used for certain other facilities where the processes or equipment used are similar to those in scientific laboratories. These notably include:

  • film laboratory or darkroom
  • clandestine lab for the production of illegal drugs
  • computer lab
  • crime lab used to process crime scene evidence
  • media lab
  • medical lab (involves handling of chemical compounds)
  • public health lab

In recent years government and private centers for innovation in learning, leadership and organization have adopted "lab" in their name to emphasize the experimental and research-oriented nature of their work.

Scientific laboratories can be found in schools and universities, in industry, in government or military facilities, and even aboard ships and spacecraft. A laboratory might offer work space for just one to more than thirty researchers depending on its size and purpose.

Read more about Laboratory:  Characteristics of Scientific Laboratories, Lab Safety

Famous quotes containing the word laboratory:

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