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The beaker is the piece of laboratory glassware primarily used for mixing chemicals and measuring approximate volumes. Its design features a wide cylindrical shape with a spout, which facilitates pouring. Beakers typically come in various sizes and have graduated markings to allow for rough volume estimations, making them ideal for tasks that require combining substances without the need for precise measurements.

Unlike flasks, which are often used for more specific solutions and may not mix as easily due to their narrower necks, beakers offer a more accessible and versatile option for mixing. Graduated cylinders, while they provide more accuracy in volume measurement, are not designed for mixing chemicals effectively due to their tall and narrow structure. Pipettes, on the other hand, are specialized tools intended for transferring small, specific volumes of liquid rather than mixing. Thus, the beaker's combination of functionality for both mixing and approximate measurement solidifies its role as a primary tool in many laboratory settings.