Correct Way of Using a Microscope
Microscopes help enlarge smaller objects or living things that can't be seen with the naked eye. This provides scientists, biologists, students and other users with a closer look at how smaller organisms function. Most of today's microscopes employ the use of an ocular and objective lens for increased magnification.
Handling a Microscope
Clear your area of any objects that could cause you to trip or stumble while carrying the microscope. Microscopes are expensive objects that cost hundreds of dollars. The last thing you want to do is break a microscope or cause other functional damages. Whenever you're moving your microscope, hold it securely with both hands. One hand should be holding the microscope arm, while the other holds the base. Before looking at any slides, adjust the revolving nose piece to the lowest possible power. Furthermore, you should always use a microscope on a firm, flat surface. This will prevent your microscope from sliding around, and allows you to easily make adjustments for better slide viewing.
Adjustments
Use your microscope in a brightly lit room to prevent eye strain. Never use a microscope in direct sunlight because this will cause eye strain as well. If the microscope has a built-in light source, use it to help with blurring. Slides should be placed on the microscope stage and securely fastened with stage clips. The slide should be aligned for viewing through the hole in the microscope stage. Lower the stage adjustment knob all the way down, but don't allow it to touch the actual slide.
Look through the eyepiece to view your organism or specimen. Use both eyes when looking into a microscope to avoid eye strain. Slowly turn your stage adjustment knob, which will raise your objective lens away from your slide, until the organism on your slide is in focus. If possible, use your fine adjustment knob to make your organism appear larger and clearer. In addition you may move the slide around to view the organism from a different angle.
Finishing Up
When changing microscope slides, you'll only need to make minor microscope adjustments. Try using the fine adjustment knob when changing slides before making stage adjustments. Avoid touching the microscope lens with your hands or fingers. This may put fingerprints and dirt on your microscope lens. Use special cleaning paper to clean your microscope lens. When you're finished using your microscope, use the stage adjustment knob to raise your microscope all the way up. Check to ensure that your microscope is set to the lowest power lens, and remove any slides on the microscope stage.
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