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Microscopy Basics in Anatomy & Physiology

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Terms in this set (27)

  • What is a microscope?
    An optical instrument used to magnify small objects, essential for observing cells, tissues, and microorganisms.
  • What defines a compound microscope?
    A microscope that uses multiple lenses to achieve higher magnification and resolution.
  • How should you properly carry a microscope?
    Always carry with two hands—one on the arm and one under the base.
  • How should microscope lenses be cleaned?
    Only with lens paper to avoid scratches.
  • What is the function of the eyepiece (ocular) lens?
    To look through and magnify the specimen 10x.
  • What is the purpose of the diopter on a microscope?
    It compensates for differences in vision between the eyes.
  • What does the nosepiece do?
    It is a circular plate that holds objective lenses and rotates to change objectives.
  • List the common objective magnifications on a compound microscope.
    4x, 10x, 40x, and 63x (sometimes 100x for oil immersion).
  • When should you use the coarse focusing knob?
    Only with the lowest power objective for large, rapid focusing.
  • What is the function of the fine focusing knob?
    To make precise focus adjustments with all objective lenses.
  • What is the role of the stage on a microscope?
    It holds the slide in place beneath the objectives.
  • What does the stage adjustment knob do?
    Moves the slide left/right and forward/back for positioning.
  • Where is the light source located and what is its function?
    Located in the base; it illuminates the specimen.
  • What is the condenser's function?
    Focuses light onto the specimen to improve image clarity.
  • How does the iris diaphragm affect microscopy?
    It regulates the intensity of light reaching the specimen.
  • How do you calculate total magnification?
    Multiply the ocular lens magnification by the objective lens magnification.
  • What happens to field of view and working distance as magnification increases?
    Both field of view and working distance decrease as magnification increases.
  • How can you estimate the size of an object under the microscope?
    Compare the object's length to the diameter of the field of view.
  • Convert 1 millimeter to micrometers.
    1 mm = 1000 μm.
  • What is resolution in microscopy?
    The ability to distinguish two points as separate entities.
  • Define depth of field in microscopy.
    The thickness of the specimen that is in focus at one time.
  • What is a wet mount slide?
    A slide preparation using a drop of liquid and a coverslip to observe specimens.
  • What is oil immersion and why is it used?
    A technique using oil to increase resolution at high magnification.
  • Why should you never use the coarse focus knob with high power objectives?
    To avoid damaging slides or lenses.
  • What is the typical total magnification for the scanning objective?
    40x total magnification (10x ocular × 4x objective).
  • What is the field of view at 400x total magnification?
    Approximately 500 μm.
  • What are key safety and handling tips for microscope use?
    Carry with two hands, clean lenses with lens paper, start focusing with lowest power, and adjust light for best image.