Question

Passage

To extract and isolate fossilized pollen grains from lake sediment samples for palynological analysis, researchers follow a meticulous chemical purification process. First, the raw sediment sample is treated with hydrochloric acid ($HCl$) to dissolve carbonate minerals, such as limestone, which would otherwise obscure the microfossils. Once this reaction ceases, the mixture is centrifuged, and the supernatant liquid is decanted. Subsequently, to dissolve silicates—namely sand and clay particles—the remaining sediment residue is subjected to a bath of hydrofluoric acid ($HF$). This step requires extreme caution and thorough washing. Next, researchers perform acetolysis, exposing the washed residue to a mixture of acetic anhydride and sulfuric acid. This critical reaction digests organic debris, such as cellulose, leaving behind only the highly chemical-resistant outer walls of the pollen grains, known as the exine. Finally, the remaining material is rinsed, stained with dye, and mounted onto glass slides for microscopic identification.

Question

According to the passage, if a researcher omitted the step involving hydrofluoric acid ($HF$), what would be the most likely result?