When viewing any slide with a microscope, a small square or circle of thin glass called a coverslip is placed over the specimen. It protects the microscope and prevents the slide from drying out when it's being examined. The coverslip is lowered gently onto the specimen using a mounted needle .

What is the coverslip used for?

The main function of the cover slip is to keep solid specimens pressed flat, and liquid samples shaped into a flat layer of even thickness. This is necessary because high-resolution microscopes have a very narrow region within which they focus.

Why do we use Covership during the observation of cell?

Answer: A prepared slide that is made up of a microscope slide, specimen and a cover slip not only gives the viewer better control over the specimen, but protects the microscope as well. The cover slip protects the ocular lens from damage by acting as a barrier between it and the specimen.