Preparing Samples

Dry MountSolid specimens can be viewed as they are or cut into very thin slices or sectioned using a very sharp blade.The specimen is put on a slide and a coverslip is placed over it. This method can be used to view pollen or insect parts.Wet MountThe specimen is put on a slide with a drop of water or oil and a coverslip is placed over it. This method can be used to examine living cells or aquatic organisms.
Squash SlidesThe specimen is put on a slide with a drop of oil or water and a coverslip is placed over it and pressed gently to flatten the specimen.This method can be used to view cell division in root tips.Smear SlidesThe specimen is put on a slide and another slide is used to smear the sample into an even coating. A cover slip is placed over the sample. This method can be used to view blood cells.