To aliquot is to
split something up into
smaller parts.
This is used in
science quite often.
For example, a
reagent that is to be kept
frozen, but is not
stable and needs to be used often should be aliquoted into appropriate
quantities. This saves the reagent from
degrading due to frequent
thawing and makes it easier to use.
The word aliquot has become more common in the
laboratory, and can now simply mean a small quantity. It is usually, but not exclusively, used for
liquids.