How to Use a Light Microscope
If you or your children like any of the sciences, then likely a microscope is involved. Many types of microscopes exist but a common one is the light microscope. Learn how to use a light microscope with these tips.
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Instructions
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Remove the microscope and parts from the packing container and look for the instructions or a parts list and locate all the parts of the microscope listed.
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Adjust the mirror or light source. To use a light microscope, you need a light source. The first source of light is from a mirror. A mirror collects light from the sun or other artificial light source nearby and directs it to the area that needs light. The other light source comes from a light bulb present in the microscope. Many microscopes include two different sources of light, a mirror and a light bulb on the opposite side of the mirror.
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3
Prepare a slide, the piece of glass with a specimen you want to view under the light microscope. The slide can be wet or dry. A dry slide is usually permanent and fixed using resin or a gum-like material. A wet slide sometimes uses stained water to help the microscope user view the material better.
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Place the slide on the mount. In science, they call this platform the stage. The stage sometimes has clasps that help keep the slide from slipping and moving side to side during observation.
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Turn the focus knobs on the sides of the microscope. They give you complete control of how clearly you see the specimen on the slide
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Record observations in a science journal. Add details of what you think you see. Always add the time and date of the observations so you have an accurate description.
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Clean up any messes you've made while using the microscope. Keep the area neat for the next time you use the light microscope. Put away all supplies including the microscope, any slides you may have used and your science journal.
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