Microscopes

(Compound Light) Microscope - used to magnify small objects/organisms up to 1500-2000x; each type reveals a different level of detail; uses an eyepiece lens and objective lens; image is inverted upside down and backward

Equation of Total Magnification - eyepiece magnification x obj. lens magnification

Field of View - the visible area seen through the microscope when the specimen is in focus; higher magnification = smaller view field

Two Types of Slides

• Prepared slides - professionally made slides with a permanent cover slip over the specimen

• Wet Mount - temporary slides that you prepare yourself

Stereomicroscope (Dissecting Microscope) - used on specimens too large/thick for a C.L. Microscope; uses a binocular scope (two eyepieces) so images are not inverted; only magnifies 10-50x

Electron Microscope - magnifies specimens by shooting electrons at them; can magnify up to 200,000x; only works on dead specimens; two types

• SEM - shows the surface (3-D)

• TEM - shows the inside (2-D)