Question

the diagram below shows how a coverslip should be lowered onto some single - celled organisms during the preparation of a wet mount. why is this a preferred procedure? 1. the coverslip will prevent the slide from breaking. 2 the organisms will be more evenly distributed. 3 the possibility of breaking the coverslip is reduced. 4 the possibility of trapping air bubbles is reduced

Explanation:

When preparing a wet mount, lowering the coverslip as shown (with one edge touching the slide first and then slowly lowering the rest) allows air to escape gradually. If the coverslip is just dropped directly onto the specimen, air bubbles can get trapped. Trapped air bubbles can interfere with viewing the single - celled organisms under the microscope.

• Option 1: The coverslip is not for preventing the slide from breaking. Slides are usually made of glass or plastic and are sturdy enough on their own.
• Option 2: The way of lowering the coverslip as shown does not directly affect the even distribution of organisms. The even distribution is more related to how the specimen (with organisms) is placed on the slide in the first place.
• Option 3: The risk of breaking the coverslip is not the main concern here. Coverslips are relatively thin but the main issue with improper coverslip placement is air bubbles, not breakage.

Answer:

1. The possibility of trapping air bubbles is reduced.