Microscopes

• What is the main part of the optical microscope where the slide is placed?

  The stage
• What is the function of the lamp in an optical microscope?

  To illuminate the microscope slide
• What is used in some optical microscopes instead of a lamp?

  A mirror
• What are the objective lenses used for in an optical microscope?

  To magnify the specimen being viewed
• How many objective lenses do most microscopes have?

  Three
• What are the typical magnifications of the objective lenses?

  Four, ten, and forty times
• What is the magnification of the eyepiece lens?

  Ten times
• What is the purpose of the coarse focusing dial?

  To adjust the distance between the lens and slide
• Why should you look at the microscope from the side while adjusting the objective lens?

  To avoid damaging the slide
• What should you do after placing the slide on the stage?

  Select the lowest power objective lens
• How do you bring the cells into focus after selecting the lowest power objective lens?

  Use the coarse focusing dial
• How do you calculate the total magnification of a microscope?

  Multiply eyepiece magnification by objective magnification
• What is the total magnification when using a ten times eyepiece and a four times objective lens?

  $40 \text{ times}$
• What should you do after selecting a higher power objective lens?

  Adjust the fine focusing dial
• What can you see when looking at animal cells under an optical microscope?

  Nucleus, cytoplasm, and cell membrane
• What additional structures can be seen in plant cells under an optical microscope?

  Cell wall, vacuole, and chloroplasts
• How do you include a magnification scale in your drawing?

  Measure the diameter of the field of view
• What should you write on your drawing besides the magnification scale?

  The magnification value
• Why is it important to use a pencil for labeling drawings?

  To ensure clear and legible labels
• What are the limitations of detail visible under an optical microscope?

  Limited detail, cannot see organelles
• What types of cells can be observed with an optical microscope?

  Animal and plant cells
• What is the process of preparing a microscope slide for viewing?

  Place slide on stage and secure with clips
• Why is safety important when using microscopes?

  To prevent damage to slides and eyes
• Why is a clear plastic ruler used for measurements?

  To measure the diameter of the field of view