Answer :
Final answer:
Tongs are used to safely hold and transport hot objects, such as beakers, in a laboratory setting to avoid direct hand contact with the heat. The correct option is 1) To hold and lift beakers of heat-resistant material.
Explanation:
The function of tongs in a laboratory is primarily to hold and lift hot objects, such as beakers of heat-resistant material. This allows the user to safely pour hot liquids or to hold items while heating them in a flame. For instance, when using a Bunsen burner to heat substances, tongs can be used to hold a piece of magnesium ribbon in the flame or to transport a hot beaker without direct hand contact. Tongs are not designed for measuring volumes, mixing chemicals, or directly heating substances on a Bunsen burner.