A typical value for paraffin melting point used routinely is within which range?

• A. 40-45 C
• B. 55-58 C
• C. 60-65 C
• D. 70-75 C

Answer: (B)

Paraffin wax used for tissue embedding needs a melting point that allows easy melting in the embedding bath and firm solidification on cooling. The typical melting point for routine paraffin is in the mid-50s Celsius, around 55–58°C. This range provides a practical balance: it melts readily when heated to about 60°C and solidifies quickly at room temperature to give the tissue block good support for thin-section cutting. If the melting point were much lower, the block could soften during handling; if it were much higher, you’d need hotter temperatures that can risk tissue damage and slower cooling. So, 55–58°C is the standard range used routinely.