Which of the following items is essential for preparing a wet mount slide in microscopy?

• A. A test tube and a stopper
• B. A glass slide and a coverslip
• C. A Bunsen burner and forceps
• D. A Petri dish and agar

Answer: (B)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand the purpose of a wet mount slide: it is used to observe living microorganisms or cells in a liquid medium under a microscope.
2. Identify the basic components needed to prepare a wet mount: a flat surface to hold the specimen and a thin cover to protect the specimen and keep it in place.
3. Recognize that a glass slide serves as the flat surface where the specimen and liquid are placed.
4. Know that a coverslip is placed over the specimen on the glass slide to flatten the sample and prevent the liquid from evaporating or spilling.
5. Conclude that among the options, the essential items for preparing a wet mount slide are a glass slide and a coverslip.