Microscopy

microscope

is an optical instrument that uses lenses to magnify very small objects for observation.

1. mechanical parts

2. magnifying parts

3. illuminating parts.

three major groups of a microscope

resolving power (resolution)

the ability of the lens system to distinguish between two adjacent objects.

photomicrographs

photographs taken through the lens system of compound microscopes.

arm

Serves as the handle to properly carry the microscope

base

supports the microscope

coarse adjustment knob

moves the stage up and down by a larger degree

fine adjustment knob

Moves the stage up and down by a small degree

body tube

Hold the eyepiece to the revolving nosepiece.

stage

This is where the slides are mounted.

stage clips

This part holds the slides in place.

revolving nosepiece

This is for adjusting the objectives.

eyepiece or ocular lens

It is where the user looks through to see the magnified image of a sample.

Scanner, Low Power, High Power, and Oil Immersion Objective

These lenses aid in magnifying the sample several times bigger than its original size.

light

Light source for producing the image

condenser

This is for focusing the light on a specimen.

iris diaphragm

This is for controlling the amount of light to the specimen.