MICROSCOPY

Course overview

The principles and practice of microscopy including: equipment and maintenance, Kohler illumination, and how images are formed. Learning Objectives: 1. Explain the function of each part of the light microscope and show where it is located. 2. Define "resolution", "contrast", and "definition" as they relate to the light microscope. Explain which parts of the microscope affect each. Manipulate these parts. 3. The user will be able to summarize the optical path of light throughout the microscope from beginning to end. 4. The user can determine the magnification, numerical aperture, and optimum coverslip thickness of an objective lens. 5. The user can perform each step in the process of Kohler illumination in order. They can also use the fine focus control to visualize the third dimension of a specimen. 6. The user can recognize when an objective lens is dirty and can perform this simple maintenance procedure. 7. The user can understand common lens aberrations as evidenced by choosing the best optics for a given application. The user will also be capable of critically evaluating manufacturer's specifications. 8. The user will have a spatially accurate, 3-D understanding of the three properties of light and how they relate to the light microscope.