Microscopy Calculations Flashcards
What is the formula for calculating magnification?
Magnification = Image size / Object size
True or False: The total magnification of a microscope is the product of the objective lens magnification and the eyepiece magnification.
True
Fill in the blank: The __________ of a microscope determines the smallest detail that can be observed.
resolution
What is the typical resolution limit of a light microscope?
Approximately 200 nanometers
In microscopy, what does the term ‘numerical aperture’ refer to?
The ability of a lens to gather light and resolve fine specimen detail at a fixed object distance.
How do you calculate the field of view (FOV) of a microscope?
FOV = Diameter of the field diaphragm / Total magnification
What is the unit of measurement commonly used for the size of microorganisms?
Micrometers (µm)
True or False: Higher numerical aperture values indicate better resolution.
True
What is the refractive index of air?
Approximately 1.0
Fill in the blank: The __________ of a lens is the distance from the lens to the point where it focuses light.
focal length
What is the purpose of using immersion oil in microscopy?
To increase the numerical aperture and improve resolution.
What is the equation for calculating the resolution of a microscope?
Resolution = 0.61 * (λ / NA), where λ is the wavelength of light and NA is the numerical aperture.
What does the term ‘depth of field’ mean in microscopy?
The thickness of the specimen that is in focus at one time.
True or False: The depth of field decreases as the magnification increases.
True
What is the typical range of wavelengths for visible light?
Approximately 400 to 700 nanometers.
How do you convert micrometers to nanometers?
Multiply the number of micrometers by 1000.
What is the standard unit for measuring magnification?
It is dimensionless, often expressed as ‘X’ (e.g., 40X).
Fill in the blank: The __________ is the part of a microscope that holds the slides.
stage
What is the function of the diaphragm in a microscope?
To control the amount of light that reaches the specimen.
What is the relationship between resolution and wavelength of light?
Resolution improves as the wavelength of light decreases.
True or False: A microscope with a higher magnification always provides better detail.
False
What is the significance of the Abbe formula in microscopy?
It relates the resolution of a microscope to the numerical aperture and wavelength.
How is the diameter of the field of view affected by magnification?
As magnification increases, the diameter of the field of view decreases.
Fill in the blank: The __________ lens is closest to the specimen in a compound microscope.
objective
What does it indicate if a microscope has a numerical aperture of 1.25?
It indicates a high ability to gather light and resolve fine detail.
What measurement is used to express the size of a bacterial cell?
Typically in micrometers (µm), ranging from 0.5 to 5 µm.
