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What is the primary function of the stage on a light microscope?
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The stage holds the slide in place and can be adjusted up and down for focusing.
Why can electron microscopes only examine dead material?
Because exposure to high-energy electrons necessary for imaging can damage living specimens.
What are the two components of a light microscope that adjust magnification?
The eyepiece and the objectives.
Convert 0.05 millimeters to micrometers.
0.05 millimeters equals 50 micrometers.
How is magnification calculated in microscopy?
Magnification (M) is calculated using the equation M = I / A, where I is the size of the image and A is the actual size of the specimen.
When might a specimen require the use of a cover slip in light microscopy?
A cover slip is used when the specimen needs to be flattened and protected on the slide.
What is an electron micrograph?
An electron micrograph is an image taken using an electron microscope.
Explain why light microscopes are more accessible than electron microscopes.
Light microscopes are less expensive, easier to use, and can examine living specimens.
What are two main limitations of electron microscopes?
Electron microscopes are very expensive, require special training, and can only examine dead material.
Describe the role of the eyepiece graticule in microscopy.
An eyepiece graticule is a scale used for measuring the image size, which needs to be calibrated for accuracy.
What advantages do electron microscopes have over light microscopes?
Electron microscopes have much higher magnification and better resolution, allowing us to see inside cells and reveal organelles.
Why is staining sometimes used in light microscopy?
Staining highlights different parts of the specimen to make them more visible.
What is necessary for light to pass through a specimen on a light microscope?
The specimen must be thin enough to allow light to pass through it.
How does the process of focusing work on a light microscope?
A focusing knob is used to move the stage up and down to bring the image into focus.
What are the two main types of microscopes discussed?
Light microscopes and electron microscopes.
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