The Petroff Hausser chamber typically has a cell-depth of 0.02 mm, which is equivalent to 20 microns. This specialized counting chamber is also offered in other depths, such as 10 microns, to accommodate various precise counting requirements.
Understanding Petroff Hausser Chamber Depth
The depth of a counting chamber is a critical parameter as it directly influences the volume of the sample being examined, which is essential for accurate quantitative analysis of microscopic particles. The Petroff Hausser chamber is specifically designed for counting very small entities.
- Standard Depth: A common depth provided for the Petroff Hausser chamber is 0.02 mm.
- Micron Equivalency: This 0.02 mm depth translates to 20 microns (µm).
- Available Depths: To suit diverse applications, these chambers are available in a series of cell-depths, including both 10 microns and 20 microns.
Significance of Chamber Depth in Microscopy
The precise depth of the Petroff Hausser chamber is crucial for its intended applications, particularly for counting microscopic particles and cells.
- Volume Calculation: The known depth, combined with the chamber's precisely ruled counting grid, allows for accurate calculation of the sample volume under examination. This is fundamental for determining the concentration of particles (e.g., cells per milliliter).
- Focus and Clarity: A consistent and shallow depth helps maintain a single focal plane, ensuring clear and sharp images of the particles being counted.
- Dark Field Microscopy: The specific depth, along with a 1.5 mm thick glass slide, is designed to allow for the effective use of dark field microscopy, enhancing the visibility of transparent or weakly stained specimens like bacteria and platelets.
Key Features and Applications of the Petroff Hausser Chamber
The Petroff Hausser chamber is a specialized piece of laboratory equipment tailored for high-precision counting of microscopic organisms and particles.
Primary Applications:
- Bacterial Counting: Ideal for quantifying bacterial populations in various samples.
- Sperm Counting: Used in fertility studies and animal breeding for sperm concentration analysis.
- Blood Platelet Counting: Essential in hematology for determining platelet counts.
Design Elements:
| Feature | Specification | Benefit |
|---|---|---|
| Cell-Depth | 0.02 mm (20 microns) | Precise volume for accurate concentration calculations |
| Glass Slide | 1.5 mm thick | Durable and compatible with various microscopy techniques |
| Optical Design | Supports dark field microscopy | Enhances visibility of minute and unstained particles |
The meticulous design of the Petroff Hausser chamber, particularly its precise and shallow cell-depth, makes it an invaluable tool in microbiology, clinical diagnostics, and research for highly accurate particle enumeration.
