Microscopes and Microscopy

This set of flashcards covers key vocabulary related to microscopes and microscopy techniques.

Microscope

A laboratory instrument that allows for magnification to observe microorganisms and structures not visible to the naked eye.

Compound Microscope

A type of optical microscope with magnification ranging from 4x to 100x, used to observe very small samples.

Dissection Microscope

An optical microscope with magnification ranging from 5x to 50x, used to observe larger samples that are too big for the compound microscope.

Ocular Lens

The lens of a microscope that typically provides 10x magnification.

Revolver

The part of a microscope that supports the objectives and allows for changing between them.

Condenser

Lenses located beneath the stage that concentrate light onto the specimen.

Diaphragm

Controls the amount of light that passes through the specimen and influences contrast and resolution.

Field of View

The area that is visible through the eyepieces and objectives of a microscope.

Mounting

The process of preparing a sample for observation under a compound microscope.

Colorants

Substances used to enhance the visibility of microscopic samples, such as iodine for staining starch.

Plastids

Organelles that carry out specific functions; includes chloroplasts for photosynthesis and chromoplasts for pigment storage.

Micrometric Adjustment

A fine-tuning knob on a microscope that allows for small adjustments to the lens or stage position.

Macrometric Adjustment

A larger knob on a microscope that moves the stage significantly for initial focusing.