Question

What is the purpose of a simple stain?

Answer 1

In science, a simple stain is useful to identify various components under a microscope.

Answer 2

I'm thinking more specifically. What does it show under the microscope? I'm looking through my lab manual and it is not very specific.

Answer 3

Is a simple stain the kind that actually binds to the cell membrane and such or the kind that outlines it (is repelled by the charges in the cell structures)? Or both?

Answer 4

It can show cells, organs, bacteria, viruses, debris, and others. It all depends on the type of stain being used.

Answer 5

Is it the difference between acidic and basic stains? Which shows the contrast and which actually binds to the structures to make them darker/pigmented?

Answer 6

Sure, on an atomic level, bonds may be involved. A simple stain just outlines what is needed to be shown under the microscope.

Answer 7

I think I'm complicating this. A simple stain means just one type of stain, and a differential/complex stain is more than one?

Answer 8

Simple stains enhance the contrast of certain components.

Answer 9

So as long as it is only one dye, it is a simple stain?

Answer 10

I believe simple stains can use basic or acidic dyes, both directly or indirectly.

Answer 11

Take a look at this: http://tinyurl.com/cxl3obw

Answer 12

I'm trying to figure out which kind of dye/stain shows the outline of the structures rather than actually staining it. I cannot find it in my lab manual.

Answer 13

Have a look at this too: http://tinyurl.com/cvakcwz

Answer 14

That site clarified most of what I was confused about. I'm still wondering about the kind of dye that does not actually react with the structures of the cell but rather outlines it.