What Is a Microtome?
A Microtome is a precision tool used for thinly sectioning objects, primarily for preparing samples for microscopic observation.
They are equipped with knives made from materials like glass or diamond, enabling the cutting of not only biological tissues but also polymers and metals into thin sections. This versatility makes microtomes invaluable in fields like biology, material science, and pathology.
Samples prepared using a microtome can be observed under various types of microscopes, such as optical or electron microscopes, especially after being stained with chemicals. Microtomes generally come in two types: those that move the blade and those that move the tissue block up and down.
The selection of the appropriate microtome type is crucial based on the specific application, ensuring precision and accuracy in sample preparation for analysis and research.