Overview

The microscope is an essential instrument used to magnify very small organisms, enabling detailed study and observation.

Types of Microscopes

1. Light Microscope: Commonly found in school laboratories; used to magnify small organisms such as plant cells and microorganisms in pond water.

2. Electron Microscope: Used in specialized facilities, such as hospitals; allows observation of the smallest microorganisms, like bacteria and viruses, which cannot be seen with a light microscope.

Parts and Functions of a Light Microscope

• Course Adjustment: Helps focus the image.

• Fine Adjustment: Refines the focus of the image.

• Glass Slide: Holds the specimen for observation.

• Clip: Secures the slide in place.

• Arm: Provides support for carrying the microscope.

• Mirror: Reflects light onto the specimen.

• Condenser: Focuses light onto the specimen.

• Diaphragm: Adjusts the amount of light reaching the specimen.

Microscope Care

• Avoid oiling any part of the microscope.

• Keep lenses free from fingerprints.

• Do not force adjustments beyond their limits.

• Maintain a clean and dry stage.

• Always carry the microscope with both hands.

• Never unscrew lens components.

Calculating Magnification

To determine the total magnification of an object:

• Check the magnification numbers on the eyepiece and objective lens.

• Multiply these values.

Example: If the eyepiece magnification is X4 and the objective lens is X10:

• Total Magnification = 4 × 10 = X40

Measuring Techniques

1. Volume

   • Liquids: Measured using a measuring cylinder.

   • Regular Objects: Found by multiplying length, width, and height.

   • Irregular Objects: Measured by the rise in liquid level when the object is submerged in a measuring cylinder.

2. Temperature

   • Measured in degrees Celsius using a thermometer.

   • Types of Thermometers:

     1. Clinical Thermometer: Used for body temperature; has a constriction.

     2. Ordinary Thermometer: Measures substance temperature; lacks constriction.

3. Length

   • Measured in meters using a meter ruler or tape measure.

4. Area

   • Calculated by multiplying length and width.

   • Example: To calculate the area of a leaf:

     1. Trace the leaf on squared paper.

     2. Count full squares.

     3. Count half and more than half squares.

     4. Total the counts.

5. Mass

   • Measured in grams using a triple beam balance.