3) Microscope review Flashcards
Name the parts of the microscope responsible for magnification, and their typical magnification levels.
Ocular lenses (10x) and objective lenses (4x, 10x, 40x, 100x).
What part of the microscope controls the amount of light reaching the specimen?
The iris diaphragm.
Which part of the microscope moves the stage up and down for focusing?
The coarse focus knob (for large adjustments) and fine focus knob (for small adjustments).
What is the purpose of the condenser lens?
To focus light onto the specimen, improving clarity and resolution.
What is the function of the stage?
To hold the slide in place for examination.
What are the two key principles of magnification and resolution?
Magnification: Enlarging the image of the specimen.
Resolution: The ability to distinguish two closely spaced objects as separate entities.
What is the role of immersion oil in light microscopy, and when is it used?
Once a specimen is in focus with one objective lens, it remains nearly in focus when switching to another objective lens.
What is Koehler illumination, and why is it important?
A method of adjusting the light path to ensure even and optimal illumination across the field of view. It improves contrast and resolution.
List the steps for setting up Koehler illumination:
Focus on the specimen using the 10x objective lens.
Close the field diaphragm.
Adjust the condenser height to sharpen the field diaphragm edges.
Center the field diaphragm using the condenser screws.
Open the field diaphragm until it fills the field of view.
What are some key practices for proper microscope ergonomics?
Adjust the chair height to align your eyes with the eyepiece.
Keep your neck and back straight while sitting.
Take regular breaks to avoid eye strain.
Why is proper posture important during extended microscope use?
To prevent musculoskeletal strain and reduce fatigue.
What are the steps to properly clean microscope lenses?
Use lens paper and a small amount of lens cleaner to gently clean lenses without scratching them.
How should you store a microscope when not in use?
Lower the stage.
Set the lowest objective lens in place.
Cover the microscope with a dust cover.
What is the purpose of regularly calibrating the microscope?
To ensure accuracy and proper functioning of the microscope for consistent results.
Explain the part of the microscope: Nosepiece
A rotating turret that houses the objective lenses. The viewer spins the nosepiece to select different objective lenses.
Explain the part of the microscope: Aperture
The hole in the middle of the stage that allows light from the illuminator to reach the specimen.
Explain the part of the microscope: Body tube (Head)
connects the eyepiece to the objective lenses.
Explain the part of the microscope: Arm
connects the body tube to the base of the microscope
Explain the part of the microscope: Stage
The flat platform where the slide is placed.
Explain the part of the microscope: Coarse adjustment knob
Brings the specimen into general focus.
Use:
Used with low-power objectives (e.g., 4x or 10x).
Not recommended for high-power objectives, as large movements can cause damage to the slide or lens.
Explain the part of the microscope: Fine adjustment knob
Provides precise focusing to make the image sharp.
Use:
Essential for high magnifications (e.g., 40x, 100x).
Helps fine-tune the focus without overshooting or damaging the sample.
Explain the part of the microscope: Stage adjustment knob
Moves the stage up and down
Explain the part of the microscope: Base
supports the microscope and it is where light source is located.
Explain the part of the microscope: Condenser
Gathers and focuses light from the illuminator onto the specimen being viewed.
Explain the part of the microscope: Iris diaphragm
Controls the amount of light hitting the condenser
Explain the part of the microscope: Field diaphragm
Located in the base of the microscope. Used to control the amount of light coming from the light source
How do you calculate the Total Magnification?
To calculate the magnification, multiply the power of the ocular lens (10x) by the power of the objective.
Explain the part of the microscope:
Eyepiece (Ocular lense)
The part where you look into.. DUH