What is a gas cabinet used for in a lab setting?

A gas cabinet is specifically designed to provide an isolated and secure environment for the storage of compressed gas containers, particularly those that are toxic or flammable. This isolation is crucial for safety, as it minimizes the risk of incidents related to leaks or accidental releases of hazardous gases. The cabinet typically features ventilation systems and safety measures to manage any potential hazards, ensuring that gases are safely contained and that any leaks are addressed promptly.

While heating gaseous substances is essential in laboratory processes, it typically involves other specialized equipment rather than a gas cabinet. Likewise, storing flammable solids or using a workspace for experiments does not align with the primary purpose of a gas cabinet; these activities require distinct types of safety measures and storage protocols. Thus, the function of a gas cabinet is focused on the safe storage of compressed gas containers within a controlled environment.