Compound Microscope Basics and Setup
24 Questions
0 Views

Choose a study mode

Play Quiz
Study Flashcards
Spaced Repetition
Chat to lesson

Podcast

Play an AI-generated podcast conversation about this lesson

Questions and Answers

What is the correct order of cleaning the objectives of a microscope?

  • Clean all objectives simultaneously using the same cotton swab.
  • Begin with the highest magnification and work down to the scanning objective.
  • Start with the scanning objective and progress to higher magnifications. (correct)
  • Start with eyepiece, then scanning objective, and then higher magnifications.

    • Which part of the microscope is responsible for adjusting the focus with precision?

  • Coarse adjustment knob
  • Iris diaphragm lever
  • Body tube
  • Fine adjustment knob (correct)

    • What role does the substage illuminator play in a microscope setup?

  • It supports the body of the microscope.
  • It rotates the objective lenses for varying magnifications.
  • It provides the necessary light for viewing the specimen. (correct)
  • It magnifies the image seen through the eyepiece.

    • Why is it recommended to avoid using xylene for lens cleaning?

    <p>It can damage the lens coatings.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What common error might one make when handling the eyepiece during cleaning?

    <p>Opening the lens unnecessarily.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    The mechanical stage on a microscope is used primarily for?

    <p>Holding the slide and allowing for precise movement.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following best describes the function of the iris diaphragm lever?

    <p>To control the intensity of light reaching the specimen.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the first step in preparing a microscope slide?

    <p>Clean the slide with soap and water.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the purpose of using a high-quality cotton swab for lens cleaning?

    <p>To avoid scratching the lens surface.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the total magnification achieved with a 10x eyepiece and a 100x objective lens?

    <p>1000x</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which part of the microscope should always be held when moving the microscope?

    <p>The arm.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What should be used to clean the lenses of the microscope?

    <p>Lens paper or a high-quality cotton swab.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    When using the microscope, what is the recommended order for adjusting objectives?

    <p>First use the low-power objective, then switch to the high-power objective.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    How can you measure the diameter of the field of view with the microscope?

    <p>By focusing on a millimeter scale and recording the measurements.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is indicated on the metal casing of the objective lenses?

    <p>The power of the lens.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What should you do if the microscope is malfunctioning?

    <p>Report the issue to your laboratory instructor.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What should you do first when beginning to use a compound microscope?

    <p>Look into the eyepiece and adjust the coarse adjustment knob.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What does the depth of field refer to?

    <p>The vertical depth of the specimen that is clearly in focus.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Why should the fine adjustment knob be used at high power?

    <p>To prevent damage to the coverslip.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the purpose of the micrometer scale in the eyepiece?

    <p>To measure the length and width of microscopic objects.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    How should the iris diaphragm be adjusted when using high-power objectives?

    <p>It should be opened for increased light.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What does it mean for a microscope to be parfocal?

    <p>The image remains in focus when switching objectives.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    When preparing a wet mount, what is the essential first step?

    <p>Add water to the specimen before positioning it.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the correct method for adjusting the coarse focus knob?

    <p>Only at low power settings to avoid damage.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Study Notes

    Compound Microscope Basics

    • Compound microscopes use multiple lenses to magnify small specimens.
    • Key components include the eyepiece for viewing, objective lenses for magnification, the body tube for connecting these components, the mechanical stage to hold specimens, and control knobs for precise specimen movement.
    • The coarse adjustment knob moves the stage significantly, while the fine adjustment knob allows for subtle adjustments to focus.
    • The condenser focuses light onto the specimen, and the iris diaphragm controls the amount of light passing through.

    Initial Setup and Focusing

    • When setting up a compound microscope, focus the objective lens on the lines of a millimeter scale for clear image viewing.
    • Adjust the light intensity using the iris diaphragm for optimal illumination.
    • Use the fine adjustment knob to determine the depth of field by focusing on different depths of a specimen.

    Parfocal Feature

    • Most microscopes are parfocal, allowing the focus to remain (or nearly so) when switching between objectives, as long as the specimen is initially centered.

    Micrometer Scale

    • Some microscopes have a micrometer scale in the eyepiece, which can be calibrated against a known scale on a micrometer slide.
    • This scale allows for measuring the length and width of microscopic objects.

    Using High-Power Objectives

    • When using the high-power objective, only use the fine adjustment knob to focus due to the shorter working distance.
    • Higher magnifications usually require more light, so adjust the iris diaphragm accordingly.

    Preparing Wet Mounts

    • To prepare a wet mount, place a thin specimen on a clean slide, add a drop of water, and a drop of stain (optional).
    • Examine specimens on low power first, and then switch to high power to observe details.

    Microscope Objectives

    • Common objective lens powers are 40x and 100x, with the magnification indicated on the lens casing.
    • When focusing, observe from the side to prevent the objective from touching the specimen.

    Total Magnification

    • Calculate total magnification by multiplying the eyepiece power by the objective lens power.
    • A 10x eyepiece with a 40x objective yields a total magnification of 400x.

    Microscope Care Rules

    • Always hold the microscope by its arm, supporting the base.
    • Keep the microscope covered with a dust cover and stored in a cabinet when not in use.
    • Clean lenses gently with lens paper or a cotton swab.
    • Be mindful of cord placement to avoid tripping hazards.
    • Allow the lamp to cool down before moving the microscope.
    • Never attempt to disassemble the microscope.
    • Report any malfunctioning equipment to the laboratory instructor immediately.

    Measuring Field of View

    • To measure the field of view, use a transparent plastic ruler and focus it using the objective lenses.
    • Center the millimeter scale in the light beam and rotate the scanning objective into position.
    • Measure the diameter of the field of view using the markings on the scale.

    Studying That Suits You

    Use AI to generate personalized quizzes and flashcards to suit your learning preferences.

    Quiz Team

    Related Documents

    Microscopes PDF Study Notes

    Description

    Explore the fundamental aspects of compound microscopes, including their essential components and functionality. This quiz covers initial setup procedures, focusing techniques, and the significance of the parfocal feature in maintaining focus across different magnifications. Test your knowledge of these critical concepts in microscopy.

    More Like This

    Use Quizgecko on...
    Browser
    Open
    Browser
    Browser