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Preparation of Scale Casts

A. Nailpolish Method:
Coat a microscope slide with a thin layer of clear nail polish. Allow the polish to stand for a few minutes so that it begins to harden. Then place a segment of a strand of hair on the polish. It is important that you do not permit the polish to harden too much, because the hair will then not make an impression. Wait for the polish to dry and then remove the hair sample from the slide. Observe the hair scales under low and high power. 
NOTE: This technique takes practice. You may have to follow the procedure several times, varying the amount of time you allow the polish to dry. 

*Repeat this procedure for the sample of animal hair provided. 


B. Thermoplastic Method:
Prepare the "slide/hairs sandwich" as described by teacher. Place the slide preparation on the hot plate (set on warm) and cover with weight provided. Allow the slide to begin to soften and then remove from the heat. After it cools, separate the "sandwich" and examine the casts on the vinyl slide under low and high power. 

Diagram the hair scale patterns (using either the nail polish or thermoplastic results) on the lab report sheet.