2: Observing cells

Parts of a microscope
eyepiece lens

coarse focus

fine focus

objective lens
stage

slide
light source or
mirror

2: Observing cells

Follow these steps to observe an object using a microscope:

1. Move the stage to its lowest position.
2. Place the object you want to observe on the stage.
3. Select the objective lens with the lowest magnification.
4. Look through the eyepiece and turn the coarse-focus knob slowly until
you see your object.
5. Turn the fine-focus knob until your object comes into focus.
6. Repeat steps 1-6 using an objective lens with a higher magnification to
see the object in greater detail.

Magnification

2: Observing cells

Both the eyepiece lens and the objective lens have different
magnifications. Together they magnify an object so we can see them.
total magnification = eyepiece lens magnification objective
lens magnification
Example:
If you have an eyepiece lens of x10 and on objective lens of x20, the
object would be magnified 200 times.
Total magnification =
magnification
=
=

10

eyepiece lens magnification x

x
200

20

objective lens

2: Observing cells

Observing plant cells

Onion cells are easy to see using a light microscope. Use this
method to make your slide.

1. Collect a piece of onion

2. Use forceps to peel a thin layer form the inside of the onion
3. Spread out the layer on a microscope slide
4. Add a drop of iodine solution to the layer
5. CAREFULLY place a cover slip over the layer