Question 1

Which of the following best describes the concept of 'resolution' in microscopy?

Accepted Answer

The ability of a lens to distinguish two closely spaced points as separate entities.

Question 2

A student is using a microscope with a 10X ocular lens and a 40X objective lens. What is the total magnification?

Accepted Answer

$$10 	imes 40 = 400$$

Question 3

Why is immersion oil used with the 100X objective lens in bright field microscopy?

Accepted Answer

To keep light rays from refracting, thereby improving resolution.

Question 4

Which of the following is the correct sequence for focusing a specimen using a bright field microscope?

Accepted Answer

Start with the scanning lens, use the coarse adjustment knob, then the fine adjustment knob.

Question 5

A student wants to change the slide on the microscope. What is the correct procedure?

Accepted Answer

Rotate the objective lens out of the way before changing the slide.

Question 6

Which adjustment knob should be used when focusing with the 40X objective lens?

Accepted Answer

Fine adjustment knob

Question 7

What is the main reason for not using paper towels or Kimwipes to clean microscope lenses?

Accepted Answer

They contain fibers that can scratch the lenses.

Question 8

Which of the following best defines 'contrast' in microscopy?

Accepted Answer

The difference in light intensity between the image and the adjacent background.

Question 9

A student is examining a stained bacterial slide and wants to improve the image clarity. Which microscope component should they adjust?

Accepted Answer

Aperture diaphragm

Question 10

Which of the following is NOT a recommended safety practice in the microbiology lab?

Accepted Answer

Leaving prepared slides on the stage after use.

Question 11

If a student observes that the image is blurry at high magnification, what is the most appropriate first step?

Accepted Answer

Use the fine adjustment knob to sharpen the image.

Question 12

Which of the following statements about microscope care is FALSE?

Accepted Answer

Kleenex tissues are safe for cleaning lenses.

Question 13

Which of the following best explains why tablets and computers should not be used during laboratory exercises?

Accepted Answer

They may become contaminated with microorganisms handled during lab exercises.

Question 14

A student is using the 100X oil immersion lens but forgot to add immersion oil. What is the likely result?

Accepted Answer

The image will be dim and have poor resolution due to light refraction.

Question 15

Which of the following is the correct formula for calculating total magnification in a compound microscope?

Accepted Answer

$$	ext{Ocular Lens Magnification} 	imes 	ext{Objective Lens Magnification}$$

Question 16

Which of the following is a special structure that can be observed in some bacterial cells under the microscope?

Accepted Answer

Capsule

Question 17

When using the mechanical stage knobs, what is their primary function?

Accepted Answer

To move the slide left/right and up/down for precise positioning.

Question 18

Which of the following best describes the function of the condenser in a bright field microscope?

Accepted Answer

It concentrates the beam of light onto the specimen.

Question 19

A student is preparing to use the microscope at the start of a lab session. What is the first thing they should check?

Accepted Answer

The condition of the microscope for any damage or issues.

Question 20

Which of the following is the correct way to carry a microscope?

Accepted Answer

By holding the arm with one hand and supporting the base with the other hand.

Lab 1: Syllabus, Lab Safety, and Introduction to the Microscope

Study Guide - Practice Questions