Question Detail
Question
During the Gram staining technique, which chemical acts as a counterstain, giving Gram-negative bacteria their characteristic pink or red color?
Correct Answer
Option D is the correct answer.
Detailed Explanation
The Gram staining technique involves several steps: staining with crystal violet (purple dye), adding iodine (mordant), rinsing with alcohol (decolorizer), and then re-staining with a pink dye called safranin. Safranin is the counterstain that colors the decolorized Gram-negative cells pink/red.
Hint
This dye is applied after the decolorization step.