The flow cytometer contains a flow chamber that has two columns of fluid-sample and sheath-maintained at different pressure. Which of the following statements about the flow chamber is correct?
A) Cells in the outer column become dispersed.
B) The sample fluid has turbulent flow.
C) Cells are aligned in single file in front of the laser.
D) The two columns of fluid differ in color.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The flow chamber in a flow cytometer has two columns of fluid: sample fluid and sheath fluid. The sheath fluid is maintained at a higher pressure than the sample fluid, which causes the sample fluid to flow in a laminar (non-turbulent) stream down the center of the sheath fluid. As the sample fluid passes through the laser, cells are aligned in a single file, which allows for accurate measurement and analysis of each individual cell. The outer column of cells may become dispersed due to the laminar flow of the sample stream. The two columns of fluid may or may not differ in color, depending on the type of experiment being performed.

The Flow Cytometer Contains a Flow Chamber That Has Two