A crucible is a container used for melting and refining liquid metals, as well as for solid-liquid heating and reactions.

Crucibles are generally made of porcelain, with specifications such as 10, 15, 25, and 50 mL. Types include porcelain crucibles, iron crucibles, and alumina crucibles. Crucibles can withstand high temperatures and are used for igniting precipitates, melting salts that do not react with the crucible, and dehydrating crystalline hydrates. Crucibles are made from materials such as lime, carbon, and various types of refractory clay. Crucibles can be heated directly with a flame (supported by a clay triangle), but they need to be preheated. During experiments, crucibles must be handled with crucible tongs, and it is strictly forbidden to touch a hot crucible with bare hands to avoid burns. To prevent splashing of solids or contamination by impurities, the lid should be covered during heating. However, if the substance generates a large amount of gas or liquid when heated, the lid should not be covered.

Evaporating dishes are resistant to high temperatures but not to sudden cooling or heating; they generally require a wire gauze pad when heated. Crucibles, on the other hand, can be heated directly with a flame.