Final answer:
Gram staining distinguishes between gram-positive and gram-negative bacteria based on their cell wall properties using multiple staining steps, which simple staining cannot, as it uses only one dye.
Step-by-step explanation:
Gram staining is a differential staining technique that can determine the differences between gram-positive and gram-negative bacteria, something simple staining cannot reveal. Simple staining uses a single dye, which colors all cells the same way, making it impossible to distinguish between different types of bacteria based on their cell wall properties.
On the other hand, Gram staining uses a multistep process involving a primary stain (crystal violet), a setting agent (Gram's iodine), a decolorization step with alcohol, and a secondary counterstain (safranin). This process classifies bacteria based on their interaction with these chemicals, which is dependent on the structure of their cell walls.
Gram-positive bacteria retain the crystal violet dye and appear purple, whereas gram-negative bacteria do not and instead take up the counterstain, appearing pink.
Differential staining techniques like Gram staining are critical for identifying bacterial pathogens and understanding their resistance to antibiotics, as gram-negative bacteria are generally more resistant than gram-positive. This information is invaluable for setting up appropriate treatment strategies in clinical settings.