Microscope Anatomy, Systems, and Microscopy Techniques

Understanding the Microscope

The microscope is an optical instrument used to enlarge images.

Microscope Systems

• Mechanical System: Comprises the structural components that support the instrument.
• Optical System: A set of lenses arranged to magnify images.
• Lighting System: Parts that reflect, transmit, and regulate the light needed for observation.

Mechanical Components

The mechanical parts of the microscope include: the base (foot), the body tube, the arm (handle), the stage (plate), the stage clips, and the coarse and fine adjustment knobs.

Optical and Lighting Functions

• Optical System: Responsible for reproducing and enhancing images through a set of lenses.
• Lighting System: Directs sunlight or artificial light toward the object being observed.
• Light Path: The light beam from the lamp passes through the diaphragm directly to the condenser.

Key Microscopy Concepts

• Resolving Power: The quality of the microscope defined as the minimum distance between two points that can be distinguished as separate.
• Microscopic Field: The visible circular area observed through the eyepiece.

Types of Microscopes

• Compound Optical Microscope: Uses lenses to enlarge images.
• Monocular Microscope: An optical microscope consisting of a single tube.
• Stereoscopic Microscope: Enables three-dimensional vision of objects.
• Dark Field Microscopy: Equipped with a paraboloid condenser that prevents light rays from penetrating the objective directly.

Electron Microscopy

In 1932, Bruche and Johannson built the first electronic microscope based on electrostatic lenses. Unlike optical versions, the electronic microscope uses a stream of electrons instead of light.

Types of Electron Microscopes

• Transmission Electron Microscope: Uses a beam of electrons accelerated by high voltage (100,000 volts).
• Combined Electron Microscopy: Shares properties with both transmission and scanning types, useful for specific investigations.

Measurement and Maintenance

Measurement: Viewers often need to determine the real size of objects or organisms being observed.

Maintenance of the Microscope

• Keep the microscope free of dust.
• Clean mechanical parts with a soft cloth.