The Microscope
Microscopes Most important tool for biologists Types: Dissecting Microscope, Light Microscope, & Electron Microscope
What does a microscope do? Enlarges specimens so we can see details
How does it work? Light is shined through the (stained) specimen and is magnified with various lenses
Compound Light Microscope Structures Ocular Lens (eyepiece) Topmost lens through which an object is viewed. Usually 10x magnification
Structures … Revolving Nosepiece Rotating piece below the ocular lens that hold the objective lenses
Structures … Arm Supports the upper parts of the microscope and provides a carrying handle
Structures … Objective lenses: Scanning objective holds 4X lens used to view the whole slide. Lower Power Objective holds 10X lens used to view the object in greater detail Higher Power Objective holds 40X lens used to view the object in even greater detail
Magnification To find the total magnification you must multiply the ocular lens by the objective lens you are using For example: 10x X 40x has a total magnification of 400X
Structures … Coarse Adjustment Knob – used to bring an object into approximate focus used ONLY with scanning objective!
Structures … Fine Adjustment Knob used to bring object into final focus Used ONLY with Lower & High Powered Objectives!
Structures … Diaphragm Controls the amount of light used to view the object
Structures … Light Source A lamp that directs a beam of light up through the objective
Structures … Base Flat surface of the microscope that rests on the lab table Also used for carrying the microscope, along with the arm
Structures … Stage Holds and supports microscope slides
Structures … Stage clips Holds microscope slides in place