Microscopy Flashcards
What is a microscope?
A laboratory instrument designed for detailed examination of objects and specimens too small to be seen with the naked eye.
It plays a critical role in clinical and research settings, allowing scientists and healthcare professionals to observe microorganisms, cells, and tissue samples to diagnose diseases and support research.
What is the primary function of magnification in microscopy?
Enlarges the image of small objects for better visualization.
What does resolution refer to in microscopy?
The ability of the lens to clearly separate or distinguish two points or lines individually in the image.
What is the numerical aperture in microscopy?
A measurement of the abilities of the condenser and objective lens to gather light.
How does the numerical aperture affect brightness and clarity?
The higher the numerical aperture, the higher the brightness and the clarity.
What is focal length in microscopy?
Thickness of the object that may be seen at one time under focus.
What is working distance?
Distance between the front lens of the objective lens and the top of the cover glass when the specimen is in focus.
What does the term parfocal refer to?
Refers to quality of the objectives and eyepiece where practically no change in focus has to be made when objectives are substituted for another.
What is the refractive index?
Bending of light rays away from the objective lens when light passes from the glass of the microscope slide to the air.
What is the field of view in microscopy?
The area a person can view through a microscope.
How does magnification affect the field of view?
As magnification increases, field of view decreases.
What is the purpose of the nosepiece in a microscope?
Holds the objective lenses and allows for easy switching between them.
What do objective lenses do?
Magnify specimens, typically from 4x to 100x, for detailed observation.
What is the function of stage clips?
Holds the stage in place on the stage so it doesn’t move while viewing the specimen.
Where is the specimen placed in a microscope?
On the stage for observation, often with clips to secure it.
What is the purpose of bottom light in microscopy?
Illuminates the specimen from beneath, commonly used for transparent samples.
What do eyepiece lenses do?
Magnify the specimen for observation, located at the top of the microscope.
What is the eyepiece tube’s function?
Holds the eyepiece lens for comfortable viewing in a microscope.
What does the arm of a microscope do?
Connects the microscope head to the base, providing stability for viewing adjustments.
What is the function of the focus adjustment?
Adjusts the sharpness of the specimen, there are two types: coarse and fine.
What does the base of a microscope provide?
Support, houses the light source, and serves as a platform on a flat surface.
How is total magnification calculated?
Total Magnification = Eyepiece X Objective.
What is the unit of measurement commonly used in microscopy?
Micrometer.
What is the first step in focusing a specimen under a microscope?
Place your specimen in the center of your field of view.
What should you always start with when focusing a microscope?
The scanning objective.
What knob is used to focus when using high power?
Fine Adjustment Knob only.
True or False: You should use both coarse and fine knobs when using high power.
False.
