Microscopy Exam Questions with
Complete Solutions
Magnification - ANSWERSHow much times larger the image is compared to the actual size of the
object (always refer to equation)
Resolution - ANSWERSThe ability to see different objects as separate entities
What are the 4 sample preparations - ANSWERS-dry mount
-wet mount
-squash slide
-smear slide
Explain dry mount and wet mount sample preparation - ANSWERS-dry mount: samples can be
viewed whole cut or cut into thin slices using a blade (sectioning) Specimen is placed onto a
slide with specimen
-wet mount: samples are suspended in liquid or immersion oil, coverslip is placed onto
specimen at an 45 degree angle
explain squash slide and smear slide sample preparation - ANSWERS-squash slide: a wet mount
is first prepared, a lens tissue is used to press down coverslip (may cause damage to specimen)
-smear slide: edge of coverslip is used to smear sample creating a thin even coating , coverslip is
then places
Why do we use stains in sample preparation and what is the main function of it. - ANSWERSdue
to illumination of light cells tend to have low contrast as they dont absorb light. Resolution is
limited by the wavelength of light as well as diffraction of light
Complete Solutions
Magnification - ANSWERSHow much times larger the image is compared to the actual size of the
object (always refer to equation)
Resolution - ANSWERSThe ability to see different objects as separate entities
What are the 4 sample preparations - ANSWERS-dry mount
-wet mount
-squash slide
-smear slide
Explain dry mount and wet mount sample preparation - ANSWERS-dry mount: samples can be
viewed whole cut or cut into thin slices using a blade (sectioning) Specimen is placed onto a
slide with specimen
-wet mount: samples are suspended in liquid or immersion oil, coverslip is placed onto
specimen at an 45 degree angle
explain squash slide and smear slide sample preparation - ANSWERS-squash slide: a wet mount
is first prepared, a lens tissue is used to press down coverslip (may cause damage to specimen)
-smear slide: edge of coverslip is used to smear sample creating a thin even coating , coverslip is
then places
Why do we use stains in sample preparation and what is the main function of it. - ANSWERSdue
to illumination of light cells tend to have low contrast as they dont absorb light. Resolution is
limited by the wavelength of light as well as diffraction of light
