Thin sections

Definition

Thin sections are ultra-thin slices of a specimen, typically around 50-100 nanometers thick, prepared for microscopic examination. They are essential for observing fine structural details at high magnification.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Thin sections are commonly used with electron microscopy to visualize cellular structures at the molecular level.
2. Creating thin sections requires specialized equipment like an ultramicrotome.
3. They need to be stained with heavy metals to increase contrast under an electron microscope.
4. Thin sectioning is crucial for studying the internal organization of cells and tissues in microbiology.
5. Preparation of thin sections often involves embedding the specimen in a resin or plastic before slicing.

Review Questions

• What type of microscopy commonly uses thin sections for detailed visualization?
• Why is staining necessary when examining thin sections under an electron microscope?
• What equipment is used to create thin sections from a sample?

Related terms

Ultramicrotome: A device used to cut extremely thin slices of specimens for electron microscopy.

Electron Microscopy:

A technique that uses a beam of electrons to create an image of the specimen.

Heavy Metal Staining: The process of using heavy metals like lead or uranium to stain specimens, enhancing contrast in electron microscopes.