Biology AC2

These flashcards cover the parts, functions, and proper operational steps of a light microscope based on the lecture notes.

Microscope

A tool used for looking at objects that are too small to see with the naked eye.

Magnify

To make objects look bigger so that they can be seen.

Eyepiece lens

A part of the light microscope used for viewing, mentioned along with the body tube and knobs.

Handle

The part of the microscope used to carry it safely.

Mirror

Used to angle light so it shines up through the hole in the stage, though it should never reflect direct sunlight.

Stage

The platform where a slide is clipped so that the objects on it can be viewed.

Slide

The object that has the items you want to look at stuck to it.

Lowest powered objective lens

The lens that should be selected first when beginning to use the microscope.

Rough focusing knob

Used to move the objective lens down to just above the slide; it should always be turned so the lens moves away from the slide during refocusing.

Eyepiece lens

The lens you look down through while adjusting the focus.

Fine focusing knob

Used to adjust the focus until a clear image of the object on the slide is obtained.

Higher powered objective lens

The lens to switch to if a greater magnification is required to see the slide.

Direct sunlight

Something that should never be reflected onto the microscope because it could damage your eyes.