Microscope Lab - Prof. Saint John

Vocabulary and concepts covering microscope components, magnification calculations, metric conversions, and lab procedures from the lecture by Prof. Saint John.

Condenser knob

Regulates the height of the condenser on a light microscope.

Iris diaphragm lever

A part of the microscope used to adjust the amount of light passing through the condenser.

Scanning Lens

The objective lens offering $4\times$ magnification.

Low-power Lens

The objective lens offering $10\times$ magnification.

High Power Lens

The objective lens offering $40\times$ magnification.

Oil-immersion lens

The highest power objective lens mentioned, providing $100\times$ magnification.

Total Magnification

The product of the objective lens magnification and the ocular lens magnification (e.g., $100\times \times 10\times = 1000\times$).

Working distance

The physical distance between the objective lens and the stage.

Meter (m)

A unit of length equivalent to about $39.37\text{ in.}$ or $3.28\text{ feet}$.

Centimeter (cm)

A metric unit equivalent to $10^{-2}\text{ m}$.

Millimeter (mm)

A metric unit equivalent to $10^{-3}\text{ m}$.

Micrometer (\text{\mu m})

Also called a micron (\text{\mu}), this metric unit is equivalent to $10^{-6}\text{ m}$.

Nanometer (nm)

Also referred to as m\text{\mu}, this metric unit is equivalent to $10^{-9}\text{ m}$.

Parfocal

A property of a microscope where the focal points of the objective lenses correspond, allowing for only fine adjustment after focusing in low power.

Wet mount

A slide preparation procedure that must be disposed of in the sharps container after use.

1 milliliter (mL)

A unit of volume equivalent to $1\text{ cubic centimeter (cc)}$.

1 kilogram (kg)

A unit of mass equivalent to $2.2\text{ pounds}$.

30 milliliters

A unit of volume equivalent to approximately $1\text{ ounce}$.