Final answer:
A wet mount is the type of slide preparation used to view specimens that must be kept moist. Specimens are mounted in a drop of liquid under a coverslip and examined under a microscope.
Step-by-step explanation:
The type of slide used to view a specimen that must be kept moist is known as a wet mount. In preparing a wet mount, the specimen is placed on a slide in a drop of liquid, which can be water or another suitable liquid such as a stain to enhance contrast. After the liquid is added, a coverslip is carefully placed on top to prevent evaporation and the specimen is ready for examination under the microscope. This method is particularly useful for specimens that must remain in a natural, hydrated state, such as live tissues, cells, or microorganisms.
For specimens like skin scrapings, the solid material is placed on the slide before adding a drop of liquid. In contrast, liquid specimens, such as a drop of urine, can be applied directly using a dropper. Once the specimen is prepared, it is observed using a microscope, often under a brightfield setting, which allows clear visualization of the specimen.