The main objective of this lab was to identify different bacteria by simple, negative, and gram staining. To view each bacteria cell, the bacteria was transferred aseptically to a slide, and they were then viewed by using oil immersion, by a light microscope. From this lab, it was determined that E. coli and B. megaterium are gram negative and B. subtilis and S. Marcesans are gram positive.IntroductionThe purpose of this lab was to view the different characteristics of bacteria by applying various staining techniques. It is important to know the make up if a certain bacteria so an antibiotic may be engineered to destroy the bacteria. From the gram stain, it was possible to determine which bacteria was gram positive or gram negative. This is important because gram-negative bacteria are generally more toxic (due to the lipopolysaccaride) are resistant to antibiotics than the gram-positive bacteria.MethodsThe materials used for this lab were:1.A light microscope2.Four glass slides3.And inoculating loop4.A Bunsen Burner5.Bacteria (E.coli, S. megaterium, B. subtilis, and S. marcesens)6.Alcohol7.Staining bowl8.Methylene blue, oil, nigrosin, crystal violet, iodine, safranin9.Distilled waterThree different staining procedures were then used for all four types of bacteria. The directions for each staining process can be found on pages 18-19 of the lab manual. For simple stain, bacteria was removed with a sterile inoculating loop and placed on a glass slide. Methylene blue was then applied until the slide was covered. Distilled water was then poured on the slide until the methylene blue was removed. The slide was allowed to dry. Next, oil was placed on the slide so that the oil objective lens on the light microscope was employed. The bacterium was viewed and a sketch was made. For the negative stain, a loopful of bacteria was placed on a slide. A drop of Nigrosin solution was placed next to the bacteria, and the blood smearing tec...
