The Light Microscope

The compound light Microscope is the most common microscope we see in our laboratory and the main purpose of this microscope is allow us to view the structures of minute organisms. The magnification of compound light microscope can be achieved when you multiply the magnification of the ocular lens or the eyepiece lens to the magnification of the objective lens.

To get started, you need to make your position comfortable when you view the microscopes, eyestrain and backaches are commonly experienced by some people who do not observe proper posture when viewing specimen under microscopes.

When using the Microscope it is a general rule to keep the microscope clean all the time, before and after the experiment. When using oil immersion on the objectives of the microscope always remember to wipe it with lens paper not with cotton or tissue paper because this can affect the function of the objectives. Most biologists’ advice that when you are viewing a slide specimens start viewing with the lowest magnification before you proceed to the highest magnification. This is very useful when you are studying the tissue section because you can see the structure clearly when you increase the magnification dramatically.

The next thing to be considered according to this article is the Focus. We have to be aware that objectives are sensitive and should be handled with care. If the objective is too close with the microscope glass slide, there is a tendency that the slide might break. Always use the fine adjustment knob to gain proper focus.

The proper illumination must also be considered because each specimen requires different illumination. For unstained specimen you don’t really need to light it up too much. Keep it low to protect your eyes.

The microscope lamp is mentioned to have a bulb, a condensing field lens and the field diaphragm. The kohler Illumination also plays an important role in evenly illuminating the field.

If you have a binocular microscope you need to use the two ocular lenses with your two eyes to prevent headache. If you have monocular microscopes then cover your other eye while you view the specimen. Lastly, when keeping the compound light microscope after the experiment, you need to clean the microscope and do not forget to remove the slide from the stage. Clean the objectives with lens paper carry the microscope properly and store it in a safe place.