Study of Microscope
General Pathology and Microbiology (Practical)
3rd Year DPT
Department of Allied Health Sciences, University of
Sargodha
Introduction
The microscope is an essential tool in medical sciences. It helps us study cells, tissues,
and microorganisms that cannot be seen with the naked eye. For example, compound light
microscope, which is most commonly used in histopathology and clinical laboratories.
Principle of the Microscope
The microscope works on magnification and resolution. The objective lens first
magnifies the specimen, and the eyepiece enlarges it further. Resolution is the ability to see two
close points separately, depending on light and lens quality. Light, focused by the condenser and
iris diaphragm, improves clarity. Thus, the compound microscope helps us observe tiny
structures like cells and microorganisms clearly.
Parts of the Microscope
Microscope parts are divided into three main groups:
Mechanical parts: Base, arm, stage, stage clips, revolving nosepiece.
Optical parts: Eyepiece (ocular), objective lenses (4x, 10x, 40x, 100x).
Illuminating parts: Light source, condenser, iris diaphragm, mirror
Functions of Key Components
1. Eyepiece (Ocular lens)
The eyepiece is the lens you look through at the top of the microscope. It usually provides a
magnification of 10x and further magnifies the image that has already been enlarged by the
objective lens.
2. Objective lenses
These are the main lenses located close to the specimen. They come in different magnifications:
Low power (10x) → used for scanning and viewing larger areas.
High power (40x) → used for detailed study of cells and tissues.
Oil immersion (100x) → used with immersion oil for very high magnification, mainly in
microbiology.
2. Stage
The stage is a flat platform where the glass slide is placed. It often has stage clips or a
mechanical stage to hold the slide steady and allow smooth movement for proper viewing
of different parts of the specimen.
3. Condenser
The condenser is located beneath the stage. Its role is to focus light from the light source
directly onto the specimen, improving brightness and clarity.
4. Iris diaphragm
The iris diaphragm works together with the condenser. It can be adjusted to control the
amount of light and contrast on the specimen. For transparent specimens, reducing light
increases contrast.
5. Coarse focus knob
This large knob is used for bringing the specimen into general focus. It moves the stage (or
body tube) up and down quickly. It should only be used with the low-power objective to avoid
damaging the slide.
6. Fine focus knob
This smaller knob allows precise focusing by making very slight movements of the stage or
objective lens. It is mainly used at higher magnifications (40x and 100x) to sharpen the image.
Handling of Microscope
Always carry with two hands: one holding the arm, one supporting the base.
Place it on a flat, stable surface.
Clean lenses only with lens paper, never with tissue or cloth.
Keep the microscope covered when not in use.
5. Procedure for Studying a Slide
1. Place the prepared slide on the stage and secure it with clips.
2. Start with 10x (low power objective).
3. Adjust condenser and iris diaphragm for suitable light.
4. Use coarse focus knob to bring specimen into view.
5. Switch to 40x (high power objective) → use only fine focus knob.
6. For oil immersion (100x objective):
o Place one drop of immersion oil on the slide.
o Rotate 100x lens into position.
o Focus carefully using fine focus only.
7. Record your observation by drawing/sketching what you see.
Precautions
Always begin and end with the lowest power lens.
Never use coarse focus with high power or oil immersion objectives.
Clean oil from 100x lens after use.
Avoid dragging the microscope on the table—always lift it.
Switch off light and cover microscope after use.
Applications in DPT
Examination of histology slides (muscle, bone, connective tissue).
Observation of blood smears.
Identifying microorganisms in microbiology (bacteria, fungi, parasites).