In a properly performed Gram stain procedure, what color are the gram-negative organisms immediately after the decolorizing stage?
A) Purple
B) Pink/red
C) Colorless
D) Brown (iodine color)

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Gram-negative organisms should be colorless after the decolorizing stage, as the crystal violet has been washed out of their thin peptidoglycan layer, leaving them unable to retain the counterstain safranin. Gram-positive organisms, on the other hand, retain the crystal violet and appear purple after the decolorizing stage.

In a Properly Performed Gram Stain Procedure, What Color Are