MICROTOME Meaning and
Definition
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A microtome is a specialized device used in microscopy and histology for cutting extremely thin sections of biological specimens for examination under a microscope. It is designed to produce precise and consistent slices of tissue or other materials for research, diagnosis, and educational purposes.
The microtome consists of a knife holder or cutting tool, a specimen holder or chuck, and a mechanism for moving the specimen or knife in precise increments. The knife used in a microtome is typically an extremely sharp metal or diamond blade that is positioned at a specific angle to ensure smooth and accurate cutting. The specimen is securely attached to the chuck or holder and adjusted to the desired position before the cutting process begins.
The microtome allows the user to control the thickness of the slices, typically ranging from a few micrometers to several hundred micrometers, depending on the intended use. This precision makes it an essential tool in fields such as pathology, anatomy, neurobiology, and cell biology.
Microtomes can be manual or automated, with the latter offering more sophisticated features such as computer-controlled sectioning and enhanced reproducibility. Additionally, some microtomes are equipped with a freezing mechanism, allowing the cutting of frozen tissue samples. Overall, the microtome plays a crucial role in the preparation of high-quality microscopic specimens for scientific investigations and medical diagnoses.
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An instrument for making very fine sections for the purpose of being examined under the microscope.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
Common Misspellings for MICROTOME
- nicrotome
- kicrotome
- jicrotome
- mucrotome
- mjcrotome
- mkcrotome
- mocrotome
- m9crotome
- m8crotome
- mixrotome
- mivrotome
- mifrotome
- midrotome
- miceotome
- micdotome
- micfotome
- mictotome
- mic5otome
- mic4otome
Etymology of MICROTOME
The word "microtome" is derived from two Greek words: "mikros" meaning "small" or "tiny", and "temnein" meaning "to cut". Therefore, the term "microtome" refers to a device used to cut very thin slices or sections of tissue or other materials for examination under a microscope.
Similar spelling words for MICROTOME
- migrate,
- macrotyloma,
- myocardium,
- migration,
- macrotome,
- Microtomy,
- microdot,
- microtubule,
- migrational,
- microtus,
- Macrodome.
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