Which of the following best describes the primary function of a chemist's microscope in the laboratory?

• A. To measure the mass of chemical substances with high precision
• B. To observe and analyze the structure of small samples or microorganisms
• C. To heat chemical solutions to specific temperatures
• D. To separate mixtures based on their boiling points

Answer: (B)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand the purpose of a chemist's microscope: it is an instrument designed to magnify small objects that are not visible to the naked eye.
2. Recognize that measuring mass with high precision is typically done using a balance, not a microscope.
3. Know that heating chemical solutions to specific temperatures is performed using devices like a Bunsen burner or a hot plate, not a microscope.
4. Identify that separating mixtures based on boiling points is achieved through distillation or similar techniques, not microscopy.
5. Conclude that the primary function of a chemist's microscope is to observe and analyze the structure of small samples or microorganisms, which aligns with its magnification capabilities.