Intro To Microscope Flashcards
What is a microscope?
A microscope is an instrument used to see objects that are too small for the naked eye.
True or False: A microscope can only magnify images.
False
What are the two main types of microscopes?
Light microscopes and electron microscopes.
Fill in the blank: The _______ lens is the lens closest to the specimen in a microscope.
objective
What is the function of the eyepiece in a microscope?
The eyepiece magnifies the image produced by the objective lens.
What is the term for the ability of a microscope to distinguish two close objects as separate?
Resolution
Multiple Choice: Which type of microscope uses beams of electrons for imaging?
Electron microscope
What is the typical magnification range of a light microscope?
10x to 1000x
True or False: The higher the magnification, the lower the resolution.
True
Fill in the blank: The part of the microscope that controls the amount of light reaching the specimen is called the _______.
diaphragm
What is the primary use of a compound microscope?
To view small specimens and thin sections of materials.
Multiple Choice: Which part of the microscope holds the objective lenses?
Nosepiece
What is the purpose of the stage on a microscope?
To hold the specimen in place for viewing.
True or False: All microscopes require a light source.
False
What type of microscopy uses fluorescent markers?
Fluorescence microscopy
Fill in the blank: The _______ is used to focus the image in a microscope.
fine adjustment knob
What is the main advantage of an electron microscope over a light microscope?
Higher resolution and magnification.
Multiple Choice: What is the maximum magnification of a typical light microscope?
1000x
What is the role of immersion oil in microscopy?
To increase the resolution by reducing light refraction.
True or False: Microscopes can only be used for biological specimens.
False
What is the term for the distance between the objective lens and the specimen in a microscope?
Working distance
Fill in the blank: The _______ lens in a microscope is responsible for the initial magnification.
objective
What is the main limitation of a light microscope?
Limited resolution compared to electron microscopes.
Multiple Choice: Which technique allows for viewing live cells under a microscope?
Phase contrast microscopy
What is the purpose of staining specimens before viewing them under a microscope?
To enhance contrast and visibility of structures.
True or False: The ocular lens usually has a magnification of 10x.
True
What is the first step in using a light microscope?
Carry your microscope to your work station using both hands
What should be done to the condenser before using the microscope?
Raise the condenser to its maximum position nearly even with the stage
What is the recommended first objective to use when observing a specimen?
Low power objective (usually 4X)
What adjustment should be made for a binocular microscope?
Adjust the position of the two oculars to match your own interpupillary distance
Which knob is used first to bring the image into focus?
Coarse focus adjustment knob
After using the coarse focus adjustment knob, what should be used for sharp focus?
Fine focus adjustment knob
What should be adjusted to produce optimum illumination and contrast?
Iris diaphragm and condenser position
What is the procedure for observing a nonbacterial specimen?
Progress through the objectives until you see the degree of structural detail necessary
What must be done before advancing to the next objective?
Position a desirable portion of the specimen in the center of the field
What should be done with freshly-prepared slides after use?
Dispose of them in a jar of disinfectant
What is the last step when finished using the microscope for the day?
Return the microscope to its appropriate storage place
Fill in the blank: You should clean any oil off the lenses using _______.
lens paper
True or False: The light intensity should be raised to maximum before turning off the light.
False
What should be done with the electrical cord after using the microscope?
Wrap the electrical cord around the base of the microscope
What should be done to the mechanical stage at the end of the session?
Center the mechanical stage
What is a key consideration when scanning the specimen for details?
Scan to locate a promising region to examine in more detail