Phase contrast microscopy Question

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the observation of dead cells under a phase contrast microscope, specifically addressing why these cells do not exhibit a bright halo. The inquiry is rooted in microscopy techniques and their implications for biological samples.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory
  • Technical explanation

Main Points Raised

  • Gen.hope55 questions why dead cells do not show a bright halo under phase contrast microscopy.
  • Another participant suggests that the halo effect is related to the finite width of the phase ring and aperture ring, rather than the characteristics of the object itself.
  • A reference to Pluta's book on advanced light microscopy is provided as a resource for further understanding of phase contrast and differential interference contrast (DIC) microscopy.
  • A link to a microscopy tutorial site is shared, which may contain relevant information on the topic.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

The discussion does not appear to reach a consensus, as it primarily consists of a question and a response without further elaboration or counterarguments.

Contextual Notes

The discussion lacks detailed exploration of the underlying principles of phase contrast microscopy and does not address potential assumptions about the behavior of dead cells in this context.

gen.hope55
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I am a university student and have this question for you guys.

Why do dead cells under phase contrast microscope do not show a bright halo?

Thanks for your help
Gen.hope55
 
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Do you have any thoughts or ideas?
 
I am asking over here because I have no clue.
 
gen.hope55 said:
I am a university student and have this question for you guys.

Why do dead cells under phase contrast microscope do not show a bright halo?

Thanks for your help
Gen.hope55

The halo comes from the fact that the phase ring (and the aperture ring) has a finite width, and is not a function of the object.

Pluta's book "Advanced Light Microscopy, vol.2- advanced methods" is the definitive text on phase contrast (and DIC as well).

This site has some good information as well:

http://www.microscopyu.com/tutorials/java/phasecontrast/shadeoff/index.html
 
thanks Andy. Thats really helpful, I just couldn't find things at all.
Hopefully I ll be able to find more on it but you gave me what i needed.
Thanks :)
Gen.hope55
 

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