Preparing and staining a microscope slide preserves it for permanent use.
Preparing and staining microscope slides preserves them for regular or permanent use so they can be referred to at a later time. This method preserves the specimen on the slide and prevents the slide from being damaged or broken. There are two different ways of preparing microscope slides for permanent use, and the method used depends on the type of specimen being studied. After you have the necessary materials, preparing and staining the slides can be done in a matter of minutes.
Instructions
Preparing a Dry Microscope Slide
1. Slip on a pair of latex gloves to prevent contamination. Position a slide on a level, clean surface to prepare it. Do not set the slide on a dirty surface or place it on objects that could damage or contaminate the surface.
2. Set your sample on the slide and make sure it lies as flat as possible.
3. Slowly slide the slip cover over the specimen. Make sure the slide does not touch the specimen or it could be damaged or destroyed.
Preparing a Wet Microscope Slide
4. Position the slide on an even, clean surface to avoid contamination. Make sure you do not set the slide on any objects or debris that could damage the it.
5. Combine a small quantity of dye with water until it has obtained the your desired color for the specimen. Avoid getting dye on your skin or clothes because it could stain.
6. Squeeze out a small amount of colored water on the slide.
7. Set the specimen in the colored water on the slide.
8. Position the slide cover at an angle and carefully lower it onto the slide, so that the water is spread evenly without creating air bubbles or damaging the slide.
Tags: Position slide, clean surface, colored water, colored water slide, could damage, Make sure
