Microscopy

Lab 3

Microscopy


Microscopes are used to view things that are too small to see without help.


Dissecting microscope view entire 3-D objects under low power. Compound light microscope examine very small or thinly sliced objects under higher magnification.

Microscopy


Stains that bind to cellular structures are used to help increase the contrast and allow you to see the structures more clearly.

Using the Microscopes



Always use 2 hands to handle the scopes! Be VERY CAREFUL when moving the microscopes. Never remove any part of the microscope.

Using the Microscopes



ALWAYS adjust the nosepiece so that the LOWEST OBJECTIVE LENS is in place when removing a slide and when putting the microscope away! NEVER, EVER use the COARSE FOCUS when you are working with high power!

Using the Microscopes



Always start with the lowest power lens this gives you the widest field of view. Find what you are looking for, CENTER and FOCUS as well as you can. Then, change to the next objective lens. Return to low power before removing the slide.

Rules
       

Lowest power objective lens in position at beginning and end. Use only lens paper for cleaning lenses. Do not tilt the microscope when you are using a wet mount. Keep stage clean & dry. DO NOT REMOVE PARTS!!!! Turn light all the way down, then turn off before unplugging. Replace cover when finished. Report any problems.

Total Magnification


Compound Light Microscopes have 2 magnifying lenses.

 

Objective lens 4X, 10X, 40X Ocular lens (in the eyepiece) 10X

Total magnification multiply the objective lens (4, 10, or 40) by the ocular lens (10).

Field of View


Field of view the circular area that is visible when you look into the microscope.


Measure the diameter, estimate lengths of objects that take up part of the field of view.

Depth of field play with the focus while viewing the slide with colored threads.