Introduction to the Microscope
The purpose of this exercise is to (re) introduce you to the microscope and it’s characteristics, relative to magnification.
1. Draw a sketch of the microscope and label the following parts:
eye piece, objective, stage, diaphragm, light source, arm, course focus, fine focus
2. Examine the microscope closely and then answer the following questions:
a. The low-power objective is shorter than the high-power objective. In what other way does the high-power lens differ from the low-power?
b. What magnification is printed on the eyepiece?
c. What does this number mean?
d. What is the magnification printed on the low-power?
e. What is the TOTAL magnification when using low-power? (HINT: total magnification combines eyepiece and objective)
f. What is the TOTAL magnification using high-power?
3. Get a microscope slide and a cover slip. Cut out a lower case “e” from a piece of newspaper. Place the “e” on the slide, using the correct orientation, and place a drop of water on it. Carefully place the cover slip on top of it, making sure the “e” maintains its proper orientation. This is called a wet mount slide. Place the slide on the microscope with the “e” still in its correct orientation, and view it under low-power.
g. Describe the position of the “e”.
h. What happens to the “e” when the slide is moved to the right?
i. What happens when you move the slide away from you?
j. Examine the “e” under high-power. How does the appearance of the “e” change?
k. How does the change to high-power affect the area seen through the eyepiece?
l. How many times has the magnification increased when you change from low to high-power?
Draw a picture of what you see under low and high power. Label the pictures with a name and the magnification used.