Microscopy

• What is microscopy the study of?

  Very small objects
• What instrument is used in microscopy?

  A microscope
• What can light microscopes let us see?

  Individual cells and large structures
• What are the two common types of microscopes?

  Light microscope and electron microscope
• How do light microscopes form images?

  Using light and lenses
• What do electron microscopes use to form images?

  Electrons instead of light
• What is resolution in microscopy?


  Ability to distinguish between two points
• What can electron microscopes see in detail?

  Internal structures of mitochondria and chloroplasts
• What is iodine solution used for in microscopy?

  To stain objects in a cell
• What is the purpose of a cover slip in microscopy?

  To protect the specimen and reduce air bubbles
• What should you do first when observing a specimen under a microscope?

  Clip the slide onto the stage
• What is the lowest-powered objective lens used for?

  To produce the lowest magnification
• How do you achieve a clear image when using a microscope?

  Use the fine adjustment knob
• What are the steps to calculate magnification?


  1. Use the formula: magnification = image size / real size.
  2. Rearrange if necessary to find image or real size.