Chapter 1 Pre Lab Exercise

(Introduction to Microscopy)
I.

II.

Definition of Microscope
An instrument used in magnifying objects too small to be seen with the naked eye.
Different Types of Microscope
Generally, microscopes are subdivided into two categories, light microscopes which utilize transmitted light for
detection of small objects, and electron microscopes which uses electron beams reflected on the electrostatic and
electromagnetic lenses to illuminate and magnify objects up to 2 million times.
Several types of microscope have been invented as a result of the different requirements of various scientific
fields (see table below for different microscopes and their distinctive feature).

Microscope
Simple Microscope
Compound Microscope
Dissecting Microscope
Fluorescence Microscope
Phase Contrast
Microscope

Microscope
Scanning Electron
Microscope
Transmission Electron
Microscope

Light Microscope
Distinctive Feature/s
-utilizes a single lens to magnify
-has a system of lenses for magnifying objects; different stains are utilized to provide
image contrast
-gives a three-dimensional image of the specimen
-reveals transparent specimens when these are treated with special dyes and
illuminated with ultraviolet
-converts normally invisible differences in the optical path of light into visible lightdark differences

Electron Microscope
Distinctive Feature
-used to produce detailed pictures of specimens surface features
-gives similar image as in a compound microscope, but can reach magnifications of
up to 750,000 times

III.

Parts and Functions of Compound and Electron Microscope

Electron Microscope

Compound Microscope

IV.
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V.
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5.

How to Use and Focus a Microscope

Clean the mirrors with lens paper. Avoid using tissue paper as it may scratch delicate lenses.
Bring the objective as far away from the stage as possible and place prepared slide on the stage. Secure it with stage
clips. Position the LPO over the stage aperture. You know it is proper position when you hear a soft click.
If your unit has an illuminator, switch it on. If you are using a mirror, adjust the mirror (using the concave side) so that
the entire filed is eventually illuminated. The diaphragm should be opened as wide as possible in both cases.
Focus object into view
a. Start by bringing the objective as close as possible to the slide, looking from the side to make sure that the
objective does not touch the slide.
b. Look onto the eyepiece and slowly move the objective away from the slide until the image comes into focus.
Use the fine adjustment knob to sharpen the focus.
How to care of the Microscope
When carrying the microscope, keep it upright, grasping it by the curved arm. Always carry it with two hands. The left
hand supports the base and the right hand grasps the arm firmly. Never tilt the microscope or carry it sideways
because the ocular might be detachable
It is important that the lenses be kept clean in order that the image of the object will be clear and distinct. Clean it with
lens paper only.
Avoid contact of the lenses with any liquid. If this happens be sure to wipe the lenses dry.
Unless necessary, avoid tilting the microscope especially if you are working with wet mounts.
Return the microscope in its proper position, that is, with low power objective (LPO)in its lowest limit, mirror positioned
vertically and clips directed forward.