DICkontrasti

DICkontrasti is a term used to describe the visual effect of differential interference contrast microscopy, often abbreviated as DIC. This technique enhances the visibility of unstained, transparent specimens by exaggerating refractive index gradients. It achieves this by using polarized light and prisms that split and recombine light beams, causing interference patterns that reveal subtle differences in the specimen's optical path.

The resulting image often displays a pseudo-three-dimensional or relief-like appearance. This allows for the observation of internal structures and surface details of cells and other biological materials that would otherwise be invisible under a standard light microscope. DIC is particularly valuable for studying living cells in real-time, as it does not require staining, which can often kill or damage the cells.

The technique's sensitivity to refractive index variations means that even slight changes in density or thickness within a specimen can produce visible contrast. This makes it an excellent tool for observing dynamic processes like cell division, cell movement, and the behavior of organelles. While the contrast is generated artificially, the observed structures are real and represent the specimen's actual physical properties. DIC microscopy is widely used in biology, medicine, and materials science for its ability to provide detailed, high-contrast images of transparent samples.