The procedure for preparing slants involves arranging test tubes containing medium in a slanted position. This is done by placing the neck of the test tubes over a 10 ml pipette or a ½ inch thick wooden stick on a flat surface. The angle at which the tubes are placed is approximately 15 degrees.
To begin, gather the necessary materials including test tubes, medium, a pipette or wooden stick, and a flat surface to work on. It is important to ensure that all equipment is clean and sterile to avoid contamination.
1. Prepare the medium: Choose an appropriate medium for the specific purpose of the slants. This could be a nutrient agar or any other agar medium suitable for the growth of the desired microorganisms. Follow the instructions provided with the medium to prepare it properly, such as mixing the appropriate amount with water and heating it to dissolve any solid components.
2. Pour the medium into the test tubes: Once the medium is prepared, allow it to cool down slightly without solidifying completely. Carefully pour the medium into the test tubes, filling them about one-third to halfway full. Take care not to introduce any air bubbles into the medium.
3. Arrange the slants: Place the test tubes in a slanted position by placing the necks of the tubes over a 10 ml pipette or a ½ inch thick wooden stick. Ensure that the tubes are laid at an angle of approximately 15 degrees. This can be achieved by adjusting the height of the pipette or wooden stick.
4. Allow the medium to solidify: Leave the test tubes undisturbed in the slanted position until the medium has solidified completely. This may take anywhere from a few minutes to several hours, depending on the type of medium used and the temperature.
5. Label and store the slants: Once the medium has solidified, label each test tube with the appropriate information, such as the date, type of medium, and any other relevant details. Store the slants in a cool and dry place, preferably in an upright position to prevent any movement of the medium.
It is important to note that the slant technique is commonly used in microbiology laboratories for the purpose of culturing and preserving microorganisms. The slanted position of the tubes allows for a larger surface area for growth, making it easier to streak or inoculate the desired microorganisms for further study or experimentation.
The procedure for preparing slants involves arranging test tubes in a slanted position using a pipette or wooden stick, pouring the appropriate medium into the tubes, allowing the medium to solidify, and labeling and storing the slants for future use.