The purpose of a heating process is to get samples to reach a certain temperature quickly. A precise temperature is not particularly important here, but rather a quick heating-up of the sample. Heating is consistently needed in chemical laboratories, as many chemical reactions only occur at higher temperatures. Heating is also needed for the cleaning and separation of compounds by means of distillation or sublimation.

Generally, so-called hotplates are used for heating. These hotplates can additionally be equipped with stirring and a timer function.

The hotplate's surface and the vessel being used play a significant role when it comes to quick heating. The goal is to transfer the temperature to the medium as quickly and fully as possible.

Heating bands, heating mantles, heating jackets, or heating hoses are other options for the heating of mediums.