Talk:Phase-contrast imaging

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The article is not accurate and has ignored the use of phase contrast in light microscopy. Phase contrast microscopy is used, in viewing unstained biological samples for example, to distinguish between structures that are of very similar transparency. It takes advantage of the fact that different structures have different refractive indices and so bend light and delay its passage through the sample, by different amounts. The retardation of the light results in some waves being 'out of phase' with others and so to the human eye a microscope in phase contrast mode effectively darkens or brightens particular areas to reflect this change.