IB Biology HL - A2.2: Microscopy

Microscopy

Technique for magnifying small objects.

Magnification

Size increase of an object compared to actual size.

Resolution

Smallest distinguishable detail in an image.

Compound Light Microscope

Uses multiple lenses to magnify light objects.

Electron Microscope

Uses electron beams for high-resolution imaging.

Transmission Electron Microscope

Visualizes internal structures of specimens.

Scanning Electron Microscope

Visualizes surface details of specimens.

Fluorescent Stains

Bind to molecules, emitting light when excited.

Immunofluorescence

Uses antibodies to visualize specific proteins.

Freeze-Fracture Electron Microscopy

Preserves cell surfaces by fracturing frozen specimens.

Cryogenic Electron Microscopy

Freezes samples to prevent ice crystal formation.

Optical Sectioning

Obtains sharp images at different depths.

Micrograph

Photograph taken through a microscope.

Prokaryotic Cells

Cells without a nucleus or membrane-bound organelles.

Eukaryotic Cells

Cells with a nucleus and membrane-bound organelles.

Plant Cells

Eukaryotic cells with cell walls and chloroplasts.

Animal Cells

Eukaryotic cells without cell walls.

Cell Structure

Arrangement and organization of cellular components.

Microscopy Lab Guide

Resource for drawing rules in IB Biology.

Dynamic Processes

Changes occurring in live cells over time.

High-Resolution Images

Detailed images revealing fine structural features.

Cell Types Identification

Recognizing cell types from micrographs.

Ultrastructures

Detailed structures within cells visible via microscopy.