Which statement about flotation bath quality and contamination is correct?

• A. Water in the flotation bath is a potential contamination source.
• B. Flotation bath has no effect on contamination.
• C. Contamination only occurs during staining.
• D. Flotation bath sterilizes sections.

Answer: (A)

The flotation bath water quality is critical because the bath is in direct contact with each tissue section as it is floated and dried. If the bath water is dirty or contains contaminants—such as dust, microbes, soap residues, or mineral deposits—those contaminants can transfer to the tissue, causing staining artifacts, altered morphology, or microbial growth under the coverslip. Using clean water (often distilled or deionized) and changing the bath regularly helps prevent these issues and keeps slide quality consistent. The bath does not sterilize sections, and contamination can arise from the bath as well as from other steps in processing, so a clean, properly maintained flotation bath is essential.