what are tongs used for in chemistry

Tongs are tools used to grip and lift objects instead of holding them directly with hands. In chemistry, tongs are used to handle hot containers, such as crucibles, flasks, beakers, and other items that have a high temperature or contain potentially dangerous materials that cannot be touched with bare hands. Crucible tongs are scissor-like tools with two pincers or pieces of metal that concave together, which allow users to grasp a hot crucible or other hot objects. They are mainly used in science laboratories to move crucibles containing intense materials and chemical concoctions that are toxic or have high temperatures. The major types of metals used to produce the tongs are stainless steel, brass, and nickel, and some of them also have a special characteristic, such as a locking version of crucible tongs that can be locked with the edge of a crucible, allowing users to be more comfortable and confident while moving a very hot crucible from place to place. It is necessary to wear safety goggles, gloves, and proper shoes when using crucible tongs to avoid accidents.