2.1.1b The Preparation And Examination Of Microscope Slides For Use In Light Microscopy Including The Use Of An Eye Piece Graticule And Stage Micrometer

Question 1

Dry mount method of sample preparation for light microscope slide

Answer 1

• Solid specimens are viewed whole or cut into very thin slices
• Specimen is placed on the centre of the slide and a cover slip is placed over the sample
• Hair, pollen and dust can be viewed in whole this way
• Muscle tissue or plants can be sectioned and viewed in this way

Question 2

Wet mount method of sample preparation for light microscope slide

Answer 2

• Specimens are suspended in a liquid such as water or immersion oil
• A cover slip is placed on the sample from an angle
• Aquatic samples and other living organisms can be viewed this way

Question 3

Squash slide method of sample preparation for light microscope slide

Answer 3

• A wet mount is first prepared then a lens tissue is used to gently press down the cover slip
• This method is good for looking at soft samples
• Care needs to be taken so that the cover slip is not broken
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Question 4

Smear slide method of sample preparation for light microscope slide

Answer 4

• The edge of a slide is used to smear the sample, creating a thin, even coating on another slide
• Then a cover slip is placed over the sample
• This method is good for blood