How should multiple small tissue pieces be arranged in the mold?

• A. In a row or located centrally
• B. Scattered randomly
• C. Overlapping
• D. One on top of another

Answer: (A)

When embedding several small tissue pieces, place them in a row or near the center of the mold. This arrangement allows the paraffin to surround each fragment evenly and keeps them within the cutting plane, improving orientation and ensuring every piece is represented in the sections. Scattering, overlapping, or stacking can cause parts to be buried, compressed, or distorted during microtomy, leading to incomplete embedding and poor ribbons. A row or central placement minimizes crowding and artifacts, giving a clean block in which all tissues are accessible for sectioning.