Preparing biological samples for examination
Aims of the experiment
- To stain cells for examination with a light microscope.
- To examine a range of cells and other structures with a microscope to understand their basic structure.
Image caption, Animal cells
Cheek cells
1 of 3
End of image gallery
Completing the microscope slide for examination
When viewing any slide with a microscope, a small square or circle of thin glass called a coverslip is placed over the specimen. It protects the microscope and prevents the slide from drying out when it's being examined.
The coverslip is lowered gently onto the specimen. A A needle mounted in a wooden or metal handle for use in microscope work or dissection. can be used to hold the specimen in place as the coverslip is lowered. It is important that no air bubbles are trapped underneath.
Staining the cells
Most cells are colourless. Stains are used to add contrast. Certain stains are also used to stain specific cell structures or cell products.
Risks
- Care must be taken when looking down the microscope if the illumination is too bright.
- Care must be taken when using microscope stains.
- Care must be taken when handling coverslips, microscope slides and mounted needles.
