CORE PRACTICALS

Question 1

What is the first stage in using a light microscope? (1)

Answer 1

If you are carrying a microscope from a storage are to your bench, use both hands,one supporting the base and the other holding the arm of the microscope.

Question 2

What is the second stage of using a light microscope? (2)

Answer 2

Place the microscope on the bench so that the base is flat and is not close to the edge to prevent it falling off. Adjust seating so that you can see comfortably down the eyepiece using the focusing screws.

Question 3

What is the third stage of using a light microscope? (2)

Answer 3

Ensure the built-in lamp is set to its minimum setting before plugging in the power cable. Then adjust said lamp to two-thirds of maximum setting.

Question 4

What is the fourth stage of using a light microscope? (2)

Answer 4

Select a low-power objective lens by rotating the nose piece. You will hear a click when its in correctly.

Question 5

What is the fifth stage in using a light microscope? (2)

Answer 5

Look at a prepared slide to locate the specimen, then put the slide onto the stage so that the coverslip is facing upwards and the specimen is located centrally below the objective lens.

Question 6

What is the sixth stage of using a light microscope? (2)

Answer 6

View the specimen by looking down the eyepiece lens. Focus the image, first using the course focus control and then the fine focus control, to avoid eyestrain, keep both eyes open.

Question 7

What is the eighth stage of using a light microscope? (2)

Answer 7

Focus the condenser by placing a sharp object (e.g a mounted needle) on the centre of the light source. Adjust the condenser lens until the specimen and the sharp object are in focus together. You are ready to use the microscope.