A specimen that is spread thinly across a slide in order to be viewed under a microscope is called a:

• A. section
• B. smear
• C. culture
• D. mount

Answer: (B)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand the context: In microbiology, preparing a specimen for microscopic examination often involves spreading the sample thinly on a slide to allow light to pass through and reveal details of the microorganisms.
2. Recall the terminology: A 'section' typically refers to a thin slice of tissue, often used in histology rather than microbiology for viewing under a microscope.
3. Consider the term 'culture': This refers to the growth of microorganisms in a nutrient medium, not the preparation of a slide for viewing.
4. Understand 'mount': This usually means placing a specimen on a slide and covering it with a cover slip, but it does not specifically imply spreading the specimen thinly.
5. Identify the correct term: A 'smear' is the process of spreading a specimen thinly across a slide to create a uniform layer suitable for staining and microscopic examination.