
Gram Stain: How stains and counterstains work
Have you ever wondered how the bacteria cell actually gets stained during Gram staining procedure? Discover how the cell retains a certain color during the experiment and to differentiate it under the microscope!
- High School
- University / College






Labster is used by 1000s of amazing schools and universities
Learn moreAbout This Simulation
This short, targeted simulation is adapted from the full-length “The Gram Stain: Identify and differentiate bacteria” simulation.
Did you know that almost all 5 million-trillion-trillion bacteria in the world can be divided into Gram-negative or Gram-positive groups? Have you ever wondered how exactly the structural components of the cell wall get stained? Dive into the microscopic world and discover the colorful magic of Gram staining procedure!
Explore the bacterial cell wall structure
Compare and contrast the cell wall of Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria by diving into their microscopic samples and observing how the cell wall structures retain certain reagents during the experiment. Discover how the four reagents of the Gram stain interact with structural components of the cell wall to color the bacteria.
Interpret given samples using a microscope
Being able to tell the difference, you will use a light microscope to interpret the results of a given Gram stain. View the microscopic image on the computer screen, and remember to apply immersion oil to increase magnification! Will you be able to identify the presence of bacteria?
Explore Gram Stain: How stains and counterstains work Virtual Lab Simulation
How do virtual labs work?
Engage students in science through interactive learning scenarios. Simulate experiments, train lab techniques, and teach theory through visual experiences that enhance long-term learning outcomes.
250+ Web-based simulations that can be played on laptops and tablets without installing any software
Teacher dashboard to automate grading and track student progress
Embedded quizzes to help students master science content
Library of learning resources, lab reports, videos, theory pages, graphics and more
Get started now!
You can explore and assign simulations to your students right away.
- Access to over 250 Labster simulations for free.
- Exclusive educator access to all of Labster Course Manager content.
- 30 days for free, no credit card needed.
- Invite your students to play simulations and get their feedback.



Integrate with your LMS
Labster integrates with all major LMS (Learning Management Systems) so that educators can use their gradebooks to track students’ performance data and students can keep a record of their work.








