In gram staining, the dye must sit on the slide containing the cells for ___. 30 seconds1 minute10 minutes5 seconds

Break Down the Problem

1. Identify the components of gram staining and the role of the dye in the process.
2. Determine the appropriate time for the dye to sit on the slide with the cells according to the gram staining protocol.

Relevant Concepts

• Gram staining is a differential staining technique used to classify bacteria into two groups: Gram-positive and Gram-negative.
• The process typically involves applying a crystal violet dye followed by iodine, decolorization, and counterstaining.

Analysis and Detail

1. The initial step involves applying crystal violet, which must be left on the slide long enough for the dye to penetrate the cells.
2. General protocol for gram staining indicates that crystal violet should usually remain on the slide for about 1 minute to ensure proper staining.

Verify and Summarize

• The options provided were: 30 seconds, 1 minute, 10 minutes, and 5 seconds.
• The appropriate time for crystal violet to sit is 1 minute based on standard microbiological techniques.

Final Answer

The dye must sit on the slide containing the cells for 1 minute.