Essential Parts of the Microscope: What Are Slides and Coverslips? What Do They Do?

The history of slides and cover glasses dates back to the earliest days of microscopy. The first use of a slide originates from a 17th century invention made by three men from the Netherlands: Willem Blaeu, Narcissus Marsh and Everard Heereboort. This invention revolutionized optical technology 

   

This glass rectangle, typically measuring 75x25mm, is the canvas upon which scientists and researchers capture and study the minuscule details of life, from the structure of cells to the secrets of the microcosmos. The microscope slide, a cornerstone of scientific exploration for centuries, remains a symbol of human curiosity and the relentless pursuit of knowledge

The purpose of a microscope slide is to act as the support for a sample which needs to be examined under a microscope. The most important aspects of any microscope slide are the clarity and quality of the glass and the nature of the light which can pass through it. 

 

A cover glass is usually made of thin pieces of borosilicate glass that are used to cover specimens viewed on a microscope slide. The thickness of the coverslip is critical for high magnification using dry objectives for optimum results in photomicrography. Coverslip are also made of quartz where enhanced UV transparency is needed. 

Materials that used to production of slide and cover glass depend on the intended application, and include Quartz, UV Fused Silica, Sapphire, Caf2 and Borosilicate. Each material offers different properties, such as the ability to work at high temperatures or degree of enhanced UV transparency. 

 

Borox microscope slides provide the clearest possible optics, enabling you to reach an accurate diagnosis. If you would like to examine our products, you can visit our website.