Preparation of Section Planes in Snow Specimens

Abstract

Diethyl phthalate, dimethyl phthalate, ethyl anisate, and α-tetralone are examples of liquids that can be used to fill the pore space of snow specimens. After the pore space is filled, the specimen is frozen solid. A section plane is microtomed and polished. Photomicrographic contrast of the section plane is improved by gently rubbing on to the plane a water–insoluble powder, such as carbon powder, or by rubbing on a water–soluble stain such as powder of acid fuchsin. Photomicrographic contrast is also improved by adding a water–insoluble dye such as oil blue N or oil red O to the pore–space filler.