Final answer:
Paraffin wax is used for embedding specimens because it is hydrophobic, has low melting points, and does not dissolve in water, providing a stable support for tissue samples during the histological examination.
Step-by-step explanation:
Paraffin wax is a substance ideal for embedding specimens because it is a medium that can support the tissue structurally without causing it to disintegrate, deform, or react chemically under most conditions. The physical properties of paraffin wax include having low melting points and low solubility in water, making it practical to manipulate at varying temperatures without dissolving the tissue sample. Additionally, paraffin does not mix with or dissolve in polar solvents like water but is soluble in nonpolar organic solvents, ensuring that the embedded samples remain intact during the cutting and staining processes in microscopy.
Due to its chemical stability and hydrophobic nature, paraffin preserves the integrity of biological specimens by preventing undesirable reactions and providing a supportive matrix that allows thin sections to be cut. This characteristic is essential for maintaining the fine cellular and tissue architecture vital for microscopic examination and diagnostic purposes.