Practical: Microscopy

What is the first step in preparing a specimen for viewing under a microscope?

Take a clean slide and put one drop of water in the middle.

Why is a drop of water used on the slide when preparing a specimen?

It secures the specimen in place.

What should you add to a specimen if it is completely transparent or colourless?

A drop of stain to make the specimen easier to see.

What does methylene blue stain highlight in a cell specimen?

It stains DNA.

How should the cover slip be placed onto the slide?

At an angle, carefully lowering it to avoid trapping air bubbles.

What should be done after placing the cover slip on the slide?

Clip the slide onto the stage and adjust the focus for viewing

Which objective lens should be selected initially when viewing a specimen?

The lowest powered objective lens.

What is the purpose of using the coarse adjustment knob when preparing to view a specimen?

To move the stage up so that the slide is just underneath the objective lens.

How can you achieve a clearer image after the specimen is nearly in focus?

Adjust the focus with the fine adjustment knob.

What is the importance of measuring the diameter of the field of view (FOV)?

To understand the size of the visible area when viewing the specimen. This measurement helps in estimating the size of the specimen and its features within the field.