Amoeba Sisters Microscopes

Protists

Protists

Unicellular organisms, including examples like Euglena and Paramecium.

Magnification

The process of enlarging an image of the specimen.

Resolution

The ability to distinguish two separate objects.

Light Microscope

A type of microscope that uses light to visualize specimens.

Brightfield Microscope

A common classroom microscope that produces a darker image on a light background.

Darkfield Microscope

Microscope that blocks most light to show light objects on a dark background.

Phase-contrast Microscope

A microscope ideal for examining live specimens without staining.

Electron Microscope

A microscope that uses electron beams for higher magnification and resolution.

Transmission Electron Microscope (TEM)

Best for visualizing internal structures of specimens.

Scanning Electron Microscope (SEM)

Best for visualizing the 3D surface of a specimen.

Light Source

Part of a microscope that provides light that passes through the condenser lens.

Condenser Lens

Focuses light on the specimen.

Diaphragm

Adjusts the light intensity in a microscope.

Stage

Holds the slide in place during observation.

Eyepiece Lens

Magnifies the image, typically offering 10x magnification.

Total Magnification

The product of the objective lens magnification and the eyepiece magnification.

Coarse Focus Knob

Adjusts the stage dramatically for initial focusing.

Fine Focus Knob

Adjusts the focus in smaller increments.

Proper Lifting of the Microscope

One hand should hold the base, while the other holds the arm.

Wet Mount Preparation

Involves placing water on the slide, covering it with a cover slip, and avoiding air bubbles.

Fragility of Microscope Components

Glass slides and cover slips can break easily and should be handled with care.

Microscope Clean-Up Steps

Remove slide, turn off light, lower the stage, and return to the lowest power objective lens.

Immersion Oil

Used to enhance resolution at higher magnifications.

Microscopes in Life Science

Used to study various biological processes like mitosis, osmosis, and plant responses.

Exploration with Microscopes

Allow observation beyond the visible eye, revealing a new world of detail.