What is a burette primarily used for?

A burette is primarily used for delivering known volumes of liquid with high precision and accuracy. This laboratory instrument is calibrated to allow for the dispensation of liquid in a controlled manner, making it essential in procedures that require exact measurements, such as titrations. The tap mechanism at the bottom of the burette allows the user to control the flow rate, enabling them to add liquid drop by drop if necessary. This level of control is crucial in quantitative analysis where the concentrations of solutions need to be determined accurately.

In contrast, the other options do not reflect the primary function of a burette. Measuring temperature is typically performed using a thermometer; stirring solutions can be done with stirrers or magnetic stirrers; and cooling reactions generally involves using ice baths or refrigeration equipment. Each of these tasks is carried out with specific instruments designed for that purpose, unlike the burette, which is specialized for liquid delivery.