Microscopes page 4

Various uses

Since the creation of the microscope, their application has expanded further and further. Since there are many small objects in this world that are barely visible or which cannot be seen by the naked eye, microscopes offer a solution. A number of purposes for which the microscope is used:

• Study of microorganisms and the structure of their cells;
• Conducting forensic investigations of crimes
• Studying archaeological finds;
• Developing new drugs in a laboratory;
• Photographing small plants and animals;
• Repairing damage to small objects;
• Examining bodily tissues and their development;
• Viewing ancient fossils.

Operation of a microscope

With a history of more than 400 years, the microscope has become an important instrument in a variety of fields. A microscope is made up of a strong frame, onto which a viewing tube with various lenses is attached. The eyepiece (magnifying glass) makes the image visible to the naked eye. The tube is also called the viewing tube and often contains prisms or corrective lenses in addition to the eyepiece, to correct the viewing angle and other defects. Most microscopes have three to five lenses, which are used to adjust the magnification factor. This can be done by turning the disc that the lenses are attached to. To focus the image on the object, another rotary knob can be used. The object you are studying can be fixed to the glass under the viewing tube using a clamp. The light can be adjusted via the aperture, so that you can see the desired subject under different conditions. In addition, it is important to keep the working distance between the object and the bottom lens between 80 and 120 mm.

Types of microscopes

Over the years, many different types of microscopes have been developed, each with their own functions. The ease of use differs by type, but is always tailored for the work that can be performed with it. We will cover some of the most common microscopes here:

• Biological microscope: The biological microscope is seen as the standard. This type falls into the category of light microscopes and makes use of transmitted light. With a magnification factor of up to 2000x, the biological microscope is especially suitable for use in medicine and biology. This includes studying fungi, microorganisms and cells. The area in which the image remains sharp with magnification is fairly small, but this makes it very suitable for beginners and hobbyists.
• Stereo microscope: The stereomicroscope is used under different lighting conditions and offers magnification of up to about 100x. This makes this microscope especially suitable for use on somewhat larger objects. Examples are plants, insects, minerals and coins.
• Super resolution microscopes: These types of microscopes are mainly used to take pictures of objects. The pictures of cells or tissues can provide more knowledge of their structure and development.
• Electron microscopes: By using electrons, a much higher resolution can be achieved compared to a light microscope. There are different types on the market, where added value for laboratory research is especially important.
• LCD microscopes: An LCD microscope uses the light, but instead of making the image visible through the eyepiece, it is displayed on an LCD screen. The advantage is that the image can be viewed by several people at the same time and that a study of the object can therefore be carried out by several people.