Microscopy and the Compound Microscope Lab 5/19/26

This set covers the vocabulary, parts, functions, and magnification calculations for a compound bright-field microscope as described in the lecture notes.

Compound Microscope

A microscope that uses multiple convex lenses to magnify objects, where the specimen is illuminated with light and appears as a darker or stained image on a light background.

Parfocal

A design feature meaning that when an object is in focus with one power, it should be in focus on another power, or very close to being focused.

Oculars (Eyepiece)

The lenses where you view the specimen, typically providing a $10X$ magnification.

Revolving Nosepiece

An inclined, circular metal plate that holds the objective lenses and can be rotated to change magnification power.

Scanning Power Objective

The objective lens identified by a red ring with a magnification of $4X$.

Low Power Objective

The objective lens identified by a yellow ring with a magnification of $10X$.

High Power Objective

The objective lens identified by a blue ring with a magnification of $40X$.

Oil Immersion Objective

An objective lens identified by a white ring with a magnification of $100X$ (not always present).

Stage

The platform where the sample or slide is placed for viewing; it supports the slide.

Condenser

Located under the stage, this part collects and focuses light into the sample.

Iris Diaphragm

A component used to regulate the amount of light that reaches the specimen.

Coarse Adjustment Knob

A larger knob used to move the stage up and down for initial focusing of the specimen, specifically on scanning power.

Fine Adjustment Knob

A small knob used to adjust the sharpness or finer details of the samples being observed.

Arm

The part that connects the head and the base, supports the microscope, and is used for carrying the instrument.

Base

The bottom part that supports the microscope and holds the illuminator.

Rheostat

An adjustment control used to change the light intensity or brightness of the illuminator.

Total Magnification Formula

$$Total\,Magnification = Power\,of\,Objective\,lens \times Power\,of\,the\,Oculars$$

Lens Paper

The only material provided that should be used to clean the oculars and objectives, as normal paper towels are too abrasive.

Mechanical Stage Knobs (X-Y Knobs)

Controls used to move the slide specifically in the horizontal and vertical directions on the stage.

Stage Clips

Components used to hold the slide in place on the stage.