Preparation of microscope slides

• What is the first step in the preparation of microscope slides?

  Mount the specimen on a slide.
• Why is it important to prevent air bubbles when preparing microscope slides?

  Air bubbles can obstruct the view of the specimen.
• What is the maximum resolution of a light microscope?

  Approximately 0.2 µm.
• What is the maximum magnification of a light microscope?

  Approximately x1500.
• What is the purpose of using Wet Mount liquid in slide preparation?

  • Used for specimens that need to be in water
  • Prevents dehydration of living specimens
  • Allows for observation of samples without drying out
• How do you properly place a cover slip over a wet mount specimen?


  Stand the cover slip next to the water and carefully lower it over the specimen.
• What is the method for preparing smear slides?

  • Use the edge of a second slide to smear the sample
  • Add a cover slip
  • Wipe off excess liquid
• What is the disadvantage of using a light microscope?

  It has low resolution compared to other types of microscopes.
• How do laser scanning confocal microscopes work?

  They use laser beams to scan a specimen that has been tagged with fluorescent dyes.
• What types of specimens are suitable for smear slides?

  • Blood
  • Other liquids
• The slide is placed on the stage, with the cover slip resting on top.
• The light then travels upwards towards the objective lens, which magnifies the image.