Microscopes are invaluable tools for biologists, engineers, doctors and other science professionals. Of these vital science tools, the stereo microscope using specially crafted series of lenses, is unique in the way it allows scientists to see very small things in new ways.
Definition
A stereo microscope is an optical microscope fitted with two sets of lenses, each positioned to view an object from a slightly different angle. The result is a three-dimensional image.
Description
Each lens of a stereo microscope is a separate two-dimensional, compound microscope system. The compound lens systems provide better overall detail than a simple optical lens system.
Lighting
In order to produce a clear, functional three-dimensional image, a stereo microscope relies on reflected, exterior light sources to illuminate its subject, instead of the brighter plate lights that shine through the specimen on a standard microscope.
Magnification
Stereo microscopes typically offer magnification of up to x100.
Fun Fact
Stereo microscopes are sometimes called dissecting microscopes, as their three-dimensional view is considered ideal for dissection work.
Tags: stereo microscope, stereo microscope, Stereo microscopes, three-dimensional image