Microscope Parts and Functions

Questions and Answers

What is the function of the eyepiece?

To hold the objective lenses

To support the tube

To look through and magnify the specimen (correct)

To connect the base to the arm

What does the tube of a microscope do?

Connects the eyepiece to the objective lenses.

What is the purpose of the arm in a microscope?

Supports the tube and connects it to the base.

What is the base of a microscope used for?

Support. Signup and view all the answers

What is an illuminator in a microscope?

A steady light source used in place of a mirror. Signup and view all the answers

What does the stage do in a microscope?

Is the flat platform where slides are placed. Signup and view all the answers

What is the function of the revolving nosepiece/turret?

Holds two or more objective lenses and allows for easy rotation between them. Signup and view all the answers

What powers do objective lenses typically have?

4X, 10X, 40X, 100X Signup and view all the answers

What does the rack stop do?

Determines how close the objective lens can get to the slide. Signup and view all the answers

What is the purpose of the condenser lens?

Focuses the light onto the specimen. Signup and view all the answers

What is the diaphragm/iris used for in a microscope?

To vary the intensity and size of the cone of light projected into the slide. Signup and view all the answers

What is the coarse adjustment knob used for?

To focus the specimen with a larger range of adjustment. Signup and view all the answers

What does the fine adjustment knob do?

Fine-tunes the focus of the specimen. Signup and view all the answers

What are stage clips used for?

To hold the slide in place on the stage. Signup and view all the answers

What is the aperture in a microscope?

The hole in the stage that allows light through. Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Microscope Parts and Functions

Eyepiece: Lens located at the top of the microscope, with magnification powers typically at 10X or 15X.
Tube: Connects the eyepiece to the objective lenses, forming the optical pathway for the image.
Arm: Provides support for the tube and connects it to the base, enhancing stability during use.
Base: The bottom structural component of the microscope that supports the entire apparatus.
Illuminator: A consistent light source that replaces traditional mirrors for specimen illumination.
Stage: A flat platform for placing slides, equipped with stage clips to secure them during observation.
Revolving Nosepiece/Turret: Houses multiple objective lenses; facilitates easy rotation to switch magnification powers.
Objective Lenses: Typically includes lenses of 4X, 10X, 40X, and 100X, producing total magnifications of up to 1000X when paired with a 10X eyepiece.
Rack Stop: An adjustable feature that controls the minimum distance between the objective lens and the slide to prevent damage.
Condenser Lens: Focuses light onto the specimen, improving illumination for better visibility.
Diaphragm/Iris: Adjusts the intensity and size of the light beam directed upwards onto the slide, impacting image clarity.
Coarse Adjustment Knob: A large knob for initial focusing; may move the stage or the upper part of the microscope for rapid adjustments.
Fine Adjustment Knob: A smaller knob used for precise focusing after initial adjustments, ensuring sharp image clarity.
Stage Clips: Keep slides securely in place on the stage to prevent movement during observations.
Aperture: Opening in the stage that allows light to pass through for enhanced specimen viewing.