Light Microscopy

Visible light is focused through a specimen by a condenser lens and then it is passed through two more lenses placed at either end of a light-tight tube. The latter two lenses each magnify the image. Limitations to what can be seen in bright field microscopy are not so much related to magnification as they are to resolution, illumination, and contrast. Resolution can be improved using oil immersion lenses, and lighting and contrast can be dramatically improved using modifications such as dark field and phase contrast.

Adjustment of the Interpupillary Distance

 

Basic Rules for Caring for Microscopes

 

Bright Field Microscopy

 

Dark Field Microscopy

 

Using a dissecting microscope

 

Using a high powered microscope

 

When to use dark field illumination

 

Phase Contrast

 

Microscopy with Oil Immersion