Discovering the Microscope

Using the Microscope

Introduction:

Microscopes are scientific tools used to enlarge images of small objects so as they can be studied. The microscope made identifying the composition of organisms possible for the human eye. There were two different types of microscopes used in this lab; the compound light microscope and the stereoscopic dissecting microscope. The compound light microscope was designed to study smaller portions of the organism in high definition. Whereas, the dissecting microscope is used to magnify organisms and view them in three-dimensions. In order to have a broad understanding of how a microscope is used we did this study. The hypothesis of this experiment was that if a microscope was used to view different specimens, then it would be easier to see the detail of that specimen.

Materials and Methods:

Compound Light Microscope-

In the very beginning of this lab we learned the mechanics on and around the microscope, and its different functions. The focus knobs, the eye piece, stage, light knobs, and the objectives were the specific parts that were used. After practicing and learning about the microscopes, we moved on to use them. In exercise one, we chose a pre-prepared slide with the letter “e” directly in the middle. When then placed the slide under the microscope, and used our knowledge about the microscope to focus in and find the “e”. Upon finding the “e”, we used a ruler to place under the microscope in order to count how many markings were in the microscopes view. After counting the markings within the field of view, we then converted from millimeters to micrometers.

Following that, we corrected the depth of focus and analyzed it. We then put a wet mount slide was used with the microscope. Our first instruction was to put a piece of cotton on the glass slide. After this, we placed a drop of water and the Paramecium onto the slide. The slide was then protected with a cover slip. The Paramecium slide was then placed under the...