How can resolution be improved when viewing cytology slides?

Applying a drop of immersion oil and a coverslip is a common method to improve resolution when viewing cytology slides. Immersion oil has a refractive index similar to that of glass, which helps to reduce light refraction. This enhances the amount of light that enters the objective lens, allowing for clearer and sharper images of cellular structures.

When using high-power objectives, such as 100x magnification, immersion oil is essential because it increases the resolution significantly. The oil bridges the gap between the slide and the lens, minimizing air interference and capturing more light for better visualization. This technique is particularly important in cytology when trying to identify subtle cellular details that are critical for accurate diagnosis.

Other methods, such as using a digital imaging system or adjusting light intensity, can also aid in viewing slides, but they do not directly enhance the optical resolution in the same way that immersion oil does. Recalibrating the microscope lens might improve overall focus and functionality, but it doesn't specifically target resolution improvement related to lens performance at high magnifications. Hence, using immersion oil remains the most effective method for enhancing resolution in cytological evaluation.