Question

select all that apply
when preparing a specimen for microscopy, which two things generally occur during the fixation step?

• cells are stained.
• cells are killed.
• cells are attached to slide.
• cells are distorted.

need help? review these concept resources.
read about the concept

Explanation:

Fixation in microscopy specimen preparation uses chemical or physical agents to first kill cells, preserving their internal structure. It also adheres the cells firmly to the microscope slide, preventing loss during subsequent steps like staining or washing. Staining is a separate later step, and good fixation minimizes cell distortion rather than causing it.

Answer:

• Cells are killed.
• Cells are attached to slide.