The Compound Microscope: Parts and Functions

Vocabulary flashcards identifying the magnifying, illuminating, and mechanical structures of a compound microscope, including specific magnification levels.

Magnifying Parts

Lenses that work together to enlarge the specimen's image.

Eyepiece (Ocular Lens)

The lens you look through at the top, typically offering $10\times$ magnification.

Objective Lenses

The primary lenses responsible for magnification, categorized as Scanning, Low Power, High Power, and Oil Immersion.

Scanning Objective

An objective lens providing $4\times$ magnification.

Low Power Objective

An objective lens providing $10\times$ magnification.

High Power Objective

An objective lens providing $40\times$ magnification.

Oil Immersion Objective

An objective lens providing $100\times$ magnification.

Illuminating Parts

Components that supply and control the light that passes through the sample.

Condenser

Sits below the stage and gathers or focuses the light onto the specimen.

Iris Diaphragm

Controls the amount and intensity of light reaching the specimen.

Illuminator (Light Source)

Located at the base, it provides light to view the specimen.

Mechanical Parts

Structures that support, protect, and adjust the microscope.

Arm

The curved support used to hold and carry the microscope.

Revolving Nosepiece

A rotating turret that holds the objective lenses, allowing for easy switching between magnification levels.

Stage

The flat platform where slides are placed.

Stage Clips

Clips that hold slides securely in place on the stage.

Coarse Adjustment Knob

The large knob used for large-scale focusing.

Fine Adjustment Knob

The small knob that brings the image into sharp detail.

Base

The heavy bottom that provides stability and support.