Prepare and examine an animal cell using a light microscope

Unstained animal cell

Materials needed:

• Microscope
• Microscope slides
• Cover slips

Procedure:

1. Set up the microscope.
2. Swab the inside of your cheek and transfer the sample to the slide.
3. Cover the sample with a drop of water. This prevents it from drying out.
4. Apply the coverslip:

• Place the coverslip at the edge of the water, at an angle of 45° to the slide.
• Lower the coverslip onto the water, supporting it with a mounted needle, until it is in place. This prevents air bubbles forming.

5. Examine the slide and draw labelled diagram of what you observe.

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Stained animal cell

Materials needed:

• Microscope
• Microscope slides
• Cover slips
• Methylene blue stain

Procedure:

1. Set up the microscope.
2. Swab the inside of your cheek and transfer the sample to the slide.
3. Cover the sample with one drop of methylene blue solution.
4. Apply the coverslip at a 45° angle.
5. Examine the slide and draw labelled diagram of what you observe.

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