What is 'static electricity' in microtomy, and how does it affect the process?
Show answer and explanation
Correct answer: Sections cling to the knife or fly away from the block; it is detrimental
Static electricity can build up in dry environments, causing the sections to fly away or stick to the microtome, the technician, or the block face. Increasing humidity or using anti-static devices can mitigate this issue.
Keep practicing
More Microtomy questions
- Which of the following describes the 'bevel angle' of a microtome knife?
- Which type of microtome is most commonly used in routine histopathology laboratories for sectioning paraffin-embedded blocks?
- What is the standard thickness for routine Hematoxylin and Eosin (H&E) stained paraffin sections?
- Which of the following describes the 'clearance angle' in microtomy?
- What is the primary cause of 'chatter' or fine parallel lines appearing on a tissue section?
- In a cryostat, which of the following is used to rapidly freeze tissue specimens for intraoperative consultation?