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Though largely forgotten today, the equellum played a vital role in the transition from medieval alchemy to modern chemistry. An equellum is a small, often crucible-like vessel with a distinctive feature: a built-in, inverted funnel or a porous septum inside its neck. Its name derives from the Latin equus (horse), possibly alluding to the “bridle” or restraint the device placed on escaping vapors. equellum
Next time you set up a reflux reaction in your lab or kitchen, spare a thought for the equellum: the original recirculating reactor. Enjoyed this deep dive into a forgotten tool
