Microscope and it's Parts

What is microscope?

A microscope  is an instrument used to see objects that are too small for the naked eye. The science of investigating small objects using such an instrument is called microscopy.Microscopic means invisible to the eye unless aided by a microscope.

Parts of microscope

1) Eyepiece:

• The Eyepiece is the top part of the microscope; it is the lens you look through to see your specimen.

2) Arm:

• The Arm:  It’s the large metal band attaching the base to the lens and eyepiece.  When you carry a microscope, use one hand to hold the Arm,  and the place the other under the base

3) Fine Adjustment Knob:

• The Fine Adjustment Knob:  It’s the smaller round knob on the side of the microscope used to fine-tune the focus of your specimen after using the coarse adjustment knob.

4) Coarse Adjustment Knob:

• The Coarse Adjustment Knob:  Of the two knobs on the side of a microscope, it is the largest.   It is used to focus on the specimen; it may move either the stage or the upper part of the microscope (in a relative up and down motion).   Always focus with the coarse knob first.

5) Objective Lenses

• Objective lenses:  Most microscopes have 2, 3, or more lenses that magnify at different powers.   Always start with the lowest power and work your way up to the strongest when examining a specimen.    The shortest lens is usually the lowest power.

6) Stage:

• The Stage:  It’s where the sample or specimen is placed for examination.

7)  Iris Diaphragm:

• The Iris Diaphragm:  It’s what allows you to control the amount of light on the specimen that comes through the stage. (Through the Aperture)

8)  Light Source:

• The Light Source:   It can be a bulb or a mirror, and is usually found near the base of the microscope shining up through the stage.

9 Aperture:

• The Aperture:  It’s the hole in the stage that allows light through for better viewing of the specimen.