What is a key difference in light interaction between a thin section and a decorative slab, according to the comparison table?
Answer
Light must transmit *through* the thin section sample, while light reflects *off* the slab surface.
The fundamental difference is that thin sections require light to transmit through the sample for analysis, whereas decorative slabs rely on reflected light to view surface appearance.
Related Questions
What is the definitive term used by geologists for a precisely prepared, thin slice of rock intended for microscopic analysis?What is the target thickness for a standard, petrographic thin section?What characteristic is required of a thin section because light must pass through it during study?What instrument is indispensable for geologists to view a thin section under both PPL and XPL?How does the thickness of a typical thin section compare to a human hair?What is the primary purpose of preparing a decorative slice from a geode?What adhesive is typically used to mount the rough rock sample during the preparation of a thin section?What is a key difference in light interaction between a thin section and a decorative slab, according to the comparison table?What distinctive feature defines a geode that is revealed when it is sliced?What characteristic is prioritized when preparing a thin section, contrasting with the goal for decorative slabs?