Name: ________________________________ Yr. & Sec.
: ____________________
The Microscope
🔹 What is a Microscope?
A microscope is an optical instrument used to magnify small objects that are not visible to the naked eye. It helps
scientists, students, and researchers observe cells, microorganisms, and fine details of materials.
🔹 Parts of the Microscope and Their Functions
Part Function
Eyepiece (Ocular Lens) Where you look through; usually magnifies 10x.
Body Tube Connects the eyepiece to the objective lenses.
Revolving Nosepiece Holds and rotates the objective lenses.
Objective Lenses Provide different magnification powers (low, medium, high).
Stage Flat platform that holds the slide.
Stage Clips Secure the slide in place.
Diaphragm/Iris Controls the amount of light passing through the specimen.
Mirror/Light Source Provides light to view the specimen.
Coarse Adjustment Knob Moves the stage up and down for rough focusing.
Fine Adjustment Knob Sharpens the focus for a clearer image.
Arm Supports the body tube; used for carrying the microscope.
Base Supports the microscope and provides stability.
STEPS IN USING A MICROSCOPE
1. Carry the microscope properly. Use two hands: one hand on the arm and the other under the base.
2. Place the microscope on a flat, stable surface. Set it on a clean table with enough light and space.
3. Check the light source. Turn on the lamp or adjust the mirror to direct light through the stage opening.
4. Set the lowest power objective lens. Make sure the low power objective (usually 4x) is clicked into place before viewing.
5. Place the slide on the stage. Secure it with the stage clips and center the specimen over the light.
6. Look through the eyepiece. Keep both eyes open (one looking through the eyepiece, the other relaxed).
7. Adjust the coarse adjustment knob. Slowly raise or lower the stage to bring the image into rough focus.
8. Adjust the fine adjustment knob. Use this knob to make the image sharper and clearer.
9. Adjust the diaphragm. Control the amount of light passing through to get the best contrast.
10. Switch to higher power objectives (if needed). After focusing on low power, carefully switch to medium or high power, and
adjust only the fine knob.
11. After observing, lower the stage. Remove the slide gently to avoid scratching the lens.
12. Turn off the light source. Save energy and prevent overheating.
13. Cover and store the microscope properly. Use the dust cover and return it to its storage cabinet safely.
Microscope Quiz
A. Identification: Write the correct answer on the blank.
1. The optical instrument used to magnify small objects that are not visible to the naked eye. ____________
2. The part of the microscope where you look through; usually magnifies 10x. ____________
3. The flat platform that supports the glass slide containing the specimen. ____________
4. The part that controls the amount of light that passes through the specimen. ____________
5. The part that holds and rotates the objective lenses. ____________
6. The large knob used to move the stage up and down for rough focusing. ____________
7. The smaller knob used to sharpen the focus of the specimen. ____________
8. The bottom part that supports the whole microscope. ____________
9. The correct part to hold when carrying the microscope together with the base. ____________
10. The part that provides light or reflects light to view the specimen. ____________
B. True or False :.Write T if the statement is True and F if it is False.
1. You should start viewing a specimen using the highest power objective lens. _____
2. The fine adjustment knob is used to make the image clearer after rough focusing. _____
3. Always carry the microscope with one hand on the eyepiece. _____
4. The diaphragm helps adjust the brightness of the light passing through the specimen. _____
5. After using the microscope, it should be turned off and covered with a dust cover. _______