January 24th, 2009 | Leave a comment below

Vitamin C (Ascorbic Acid) Crystals

Image Information: Both images depict Vitamin C (Ascorbic Acid) crystals under low magnification using crossed polarizing filters. A dilute solution of pure vitamin C was evaporated on the microscope slide. Crystals formed randomly, delivering a nearly unlimited source of beauty.

Background Information: Vitamin C is an birefringent, optically active molecule. The crystals have a refractive index which is different into different directions. Due to the interference of light, some wavelengths (colors) are absorbed resulting in a colorful image. For the method, view Simple Polarization Microscopy and Growing Crystals.

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