Optical microscopes use lenses to bend light and magnify images (extent of magnification determined by lenses)
- Most light microscopes include both an ocular lens (~10×) and objective lens (~10×; 40×; 100×)
Components of a Light Microscope
Component:
none
Eyepiece
Focus Mechanism
Revolving Nosepiece
Objective Lenses
Stage
Stage Clips
Iris Diaphragm
Function of Microscope Components:
- Eyepiece – The point through which the magnified image is observed (contains ocular lens)
- Focus Mechanism – Responsible for resolving the image (may include both fine and coarse focus adjustments)
- Revolving Nosepiece – Rotating device that allows for selection of objective lens
- Objective Lens – Magnifies image of specimen (in conjunction with ocular lens)
- Stage – Platform on which specimen is positioned (specimen is usually affixed to a glass slide)
- Stage Clips – Holds specimen in place (some mechanical stages can be moved to reposition slide while viewing)
- Iris Diaphragm – Regulates the intensity of light that is projected onto the slide
- Light Source – Either external (redirected by mirrors) or internal (light bulb within the microscope base)