What is the ideal temperature for a flotation water bath used to expand paraffin sections?
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Correct answer: 5–10°C below the melting point of the wax
A water bath should be kept 5–10°C below the melting point of the paraffin used (usually around 45–50°C). This allows the section to flatten and expand without causing the wax to melt and the tissue to disintegrate.
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