Microscopy

• What is the primary function of microscopes in biology?

  To discover and study cells
• What are the main functions of microscopes?

  • Magnify images
  • Increase resolution
  • Distinguish between close points
• What does resolution in microscopy refer to?


  How well a microscope distinguishes between two close points
• When were light microscopes invented?

  In the 1500s
• What is the main difference between light microscopes and electron microscopes?

  Electron microscopes have higher detail but cannot view living cells
• How have electron microscopes improved our understanding of cells?

  They provide a clearer understanding of cell structure and ribosome function
• What is the process to view a specimen using a light microscope?

  1. Take a thin slice of the specimen
  2. Add a drop of water to the slide
  3. Place a cover slip at one end of the specimen
  4. Use a mounted needle to carefully loosen the specimen
• What is necessary for a specimen to be viewed under a light microscope?

  The specimen must let light through
• How should water be added to the slide when preparing a specimen?


  Use a pipette to put a few drops in the center of the slide
• What tool is used to place the cover slip on the specimen?

  A mounted needle
• Why is it important to hold the cover slip at an angle when placing it on the specimen?

  To avoid trapping air bubbles under the cover slip
• What is the role of ribosomes in cells?

  They are involved in protein synthesis