A hot plate is a device used to heat samples, solutions, and materials in a laboratory. It consists of a flat surface with a heating source that can reach precise temperatures without the danger of an open flame. A hot plate can also have an integrated magnetic stirrer that can rotate a magnetic bar inside the container to mix the heated liquid. A hot plate can be used for various purposes, such as performing chemical reactions, heating samples, incubating cultures, and warming glassware. A hot plate can have different controls, indicators, connections, and accessories to suit different applications.