Ex 2 - Preparation of Bacterial Smears

Bacterial Smear

Thin layer of bacteria on a slide for staining.

Pure Culture

Contains only one species of bacterium.

Inoculating Loop

Tool used to transfer bacteria to a slide.

Bunsen Burner

Device used for sterilizing tools and cultures.

Heat Fixing

Process of killing bacteria and adhering them to slide.

Disinfectant

Chemical used to clean surfaces before procedures.

Aseptic Technique

Method to prevent contamination during bacterial handling.

Nutrient Broth

Liquid growth medium for cultivating bacteria.

Nutrient Agar

Solid growth medium for bacterial cultures.

Air Drying

Evaporation of liquid from the smear before staining.

Staining Reagent

Chemical used to color bacteria for visibility.

Loopful

Amount of liquid bacteria taken with an inoculating loop.

Target Area

Marked section on slide for placing bacterial smear.

Slide Label

Identification on slide including bacterial species initials.

Contamination Prevention

Steps taken to avoid unwanted microorganisms in cultures.

Culture Tube

Container used for growing bacterial cultures.

Loop Sterilization

Heating the loop to kill contaminants before use.

Smear Thickness

Ideal smear should be thin for clear microscopy.

Heat Contact

Heat should touch the underside of the slide.

Liquid Growth Medium

Nutrient solution for bacterial growth, e.g., broth.

Solid Growth Medium

Gel-like substance for culturing bacteria, e.g., agar.

Loop Flaming

Passing loop through flame to sterilize it.

Bacterial Sample

Small amount of bacteria taken for smear preparation.

Spill Absorption

Using paper towels to absorb any liquid spills.

Microscope Examination

Viewing stained bacteria under a microscope.

Electric Warming Tray

Device used for controlled air drying of smears.

Smear Preparation Steps

Sequential actions taken to create a bacterial smear.

Agar Slant Culture

Bacterial culture grown on slanted agar surface.

Broth Culture

Bacterial culture grown in liquid nutrient broth.