Which of the following lists the correct order of steps for bringing an object into focus under high power on a compound light microscope?

• A. Start with low power, use coarse adjustment, switch to high power, use fine adjustment
• B. Start with high power, use fine adjustment, switch to low power, use coarse adjustment
• C. Start with low power, use fine adjustment, switch to high power, use coarse adjustment
• D. Start with high power, use coarse adjustment, switch to low power, use fine adjustment

Answer: (A)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Step 1: Begin by placing the microscope slide on the stage and selecting the low power objective lens. This provides a wider field of view and makes it easier to locate the specimen.
2. Step 2: Use the coarse adjustment knob to bring the specimen roughly into focus under low power. The coarse adjustment moves the stage or objective lens quickly and over a larger distance.
3. Step 3: Once the specimen is in focus under low power, switch to the high power objective lens carefully without moving the stage significantly to avoid losing the specimen.
4. Step 4: Use the fine adjustment knob to sharpen the focus under high power. The fine adjustment moves the stage or lens very slightly for precise focusing.
5. Step 5: Avoid using the coarse adjustment under high power to prevent damaging the slide or the objective lens, as the working distance is very small at high magnification.