Light Microscope; Handling & care
Welcome to the electronic science frontier classroom of the 21st century. Microscopes are very useful tools used by a wide spectrum of scientists. They extend human vision by making enlarged images of very small objects. The compound light microscope becomes one of the basic tools in high school and college biology classes.
This test enables you to determine how well you have been taught about the care and handling of a compound light microscope and procedure for making a wet mount microscope slide.
I wish you well in your future Read moreand hoping you will have a better appreciation for the life sciences.
Good Luck!
Questions and Answers
- 1.
How is excessive water drawn from the cover slip and specimen of a "wet mount preparation"?
- A.
Lick the excessive water from the microscope slide
- B.
Use a pipet to remove the excessive water
- C.
Use a sponge to remove the excessive water
- D.
Use bibulous paper for faster results
Correct Answer
D. Use bibulous paper for faster resultsExplanation
Bibulous paper is a highly absorbent paper that is commonly used in laboratories to remove excess liquid from surfaces. In the context of a wet mount preparation, bibulous paper can be used to quickly and effectively draw out excessive water from the cover slip and specimen. This helps to prevent the water from interfering with the microscopic observation and ensures a clear view of the specimen.Rate this question:
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- 2.
What is the total magnification of a 10X ocular and 40X high power objective lens?
- A.
4X
- B.
10X
- C.
400X
- D.
4 000X
Correct Answer
C. 400XExplanation
The total magnification is determined by multiplying the magnification of the ocular lens (10X) by the magnification of the objective lens (40X). Therefore, the total magnification is 10X * 40X = 400X.Rate this question:
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- 3.
How many drop(s) of water are recommended by your textbook and biology instructor to cover a specimen? (Please enter a number from 1 to 10)
Correct Answer
1Explanation
The textbook and biology instructor recommend using only 1 drop of water to cover a specimen.Rate this question:
- 4.
What part of a compound light microscope is used to control the amount of light passing through the specimen?
- A.
Low Power Objective
- B.
Stage Clips
- C.
Nose-piece
- D.
Disc Diaphragm
Correct Answer
D. Disc DiaphragmExplanation
The disc diaphragm in a compound light microscope is used to control the amount of light passing through the specimen. By adjusting the disc diaphragm, the user can increase or decrease the intensity of the light, which allows for better visualization and clarity of the specimen. This feature is particularly useful when observing specimens with different levels of transparency or when trying to enhance specific details of the specimen.Rate this question:
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- 5.
Where are your hands placed on the compound light microscope during transportation?
- A.
Arm only
- B.
Base only
- C.
Arm and Base
- D.
Base and Nosepiece
Correct Answer
C. Arm and BaseExplanation
During transportation of a compound light microscope, it is recommended to place your hands on both the arm and the base. This ensures a secure grip and prevents any accidental damage or movement of the microscope. Holding the arm provides stability and control, while supporting the base helps to distribute the weight evenly and prevent any imbalance. By holding both the arm and the base, you can safely transport the microscope without risking any potential harm to yourself or the equipment.Rate this question:
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- 6.
When the letter "e" is placed ointo a "wet mount" microscope slide facing upright position. How will you observe the letter "e" through the ocular?
- A.
Correct position as you placed it on the microscope slide
- B.
Upside down on the microscope slide
- C.
The letter "e" is facing toward the left stage clip
- D.
The letter "e" is facing toward the right stage clip
- E.
The letter "e" is not visible
Correct Answer
B. Upside down on the microscope slideExplanation
When the letter "e" is placed upside down on the microscope slide, it will appear upside down through the ocular. This is because the microscope lenses invert the image, causing objects to appear flipped when viewed through the microscope. Therefore, the correct answer is "Upside down on the microscope slide."Rate this question:
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- 7.
When should you clean the eyepiece and objective lens of your compound light microscope?
- A.
Every time you use the compound light microscope
- B.
Once a week (if the microscope is used every laboratory) period)
- C.
Twice a week (if the microscope is used every laboratory) period)
- D.
You allow the biology teacher to clean the microscope
- E.
The microscope company cleans the lens system
Correct Answer
A. Every time you use the compound light microscopeExplanation
The eyepiece and objective lens of a compound light microscope should be cleaned every time it is used to ensure clear and accurate observations. Cleaning these components removes any dust, debris, or smudges that may affect the quality of the image seen through the microscope. Regular cleaning helps maintain the functionality and performance of the microscope.Rate this question:
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- 8.
How should you reduce the number of air bubbles under the cover slip?
- A.
Position coverslip at the edge of the drop of water and 90 degree angle
- B.
Position coverslip at the end of the drop of water and 45 degree angle
- C.
Position coverslip at the end of the drop of water and 30 degree angle
- D.
Position coverslip at the far right of the microscope slide
Correct Answer
B. Position coverslip at the end of the drop of water and 45 degree angleExplanation
Positioning the coverslip at the end of the drop of water and at a 45 degree angle allows for a smooth and gradual placement, reducing the likelihood of trapping air bubbles underneath. Placing it at the edge of the drop or at a different angle may cause the coverslip to slide or push the water, creating air bubbles. Positioning it at the far right of the microscope slide is unrelated to reducing air bubbles.Rate this question:
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- 9.
What microscope part holds the microscope slide on the stage? (hint: 2 words) Please enter your answer(s) in all lower case letters.
Correct Answer
stage clips, stage clipExplanation
The part of the microscope that holds the microscope slide on the stage is called stage clips or stage clip.Rate this question:
- 10.
When using the coarse adjustment knob on the compound light microscope. Which objective lens is locked into viewing position?
- A.
Low Power Objective
- B.
Eyepiece Objective
- C.
Revolving Objective
- D.
Electronic Objective
Correct Answer
A. Low Power ObjectiveExplanation
The coarse adjustment knob on a compound light microscope is used to bring the specimen into rough focus. It moves the stage up and down, allowing the user to quickly adjust the focus. The low power objective lens is locked into viewing position because it is the lens that is closest to the specimen and provides the initial magnification. The other objective lenses, such as the high power and oil immersion objectives, can be rotated into place once the specimen is roughly in focus using the coarse adjustment knob.Rate this question:
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- 11.
When using the fine adjustment knob on the compound light microscope. Which objective lens is locked into viewing position?
- A.
Scanning Objective
- B.
Low Power Objective
- C.
High Power Objective
- D.
Eyepiece Objective
Correct Answer
C. High Power ObjectiveExplanation
When using the fine adjustment knob on the compound light microscope, the high power objective lens is locked into viewing position. This is because the high power objective lens provides the highest magnification and therefore requires the most precise adjustment to focus on the specimen. The fine adjustment knob allows for small, incremental movements of the high power objective lens to achieve a clear and detailed image of the specimen.Rate this question:
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- 12.
When observing a specimen with a compound light microscope. You lock the high power objective into viewing position first.
- A.
True
- B.
False
Correct Answer
B. FalseExplanation
Locking the high power objective into viewing position first is not the correct procedure when observing a specimen with a compound light microscope. The correct procedure is to start with the lowest power objective (usually the scanning objective), focus on the specimen, and then gradually increase the magnification by rotating the nosepiece to the next higher power objective. Locking the high power objective into viewing position first would make it difficult to focus on the specimen and may result in damage to the microscope or specimen.Rate this question:
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- 13.
When observing a specimen with a compound light microscope. You lock _____ objective lens into viewing position first.
- A.
Low power
- B.
High power
- C.
Scanning
- D.
Research power
Correct Answer
C. ScanningExplanation
When observing a specimen with a compound light microscope, you lock the scanning objective lens into viewing position first. The scanning objective lens has the lowest magnification power, typically around 4x or 5x. This allows you to quickly scan the specimen and locate the area of interest before switching to higher magnification lenses. Locking the scanning lens first ensures that you have a wider field of view and can easily navigate and focus on the specimen.Rate this question:
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- 14.
What is the correct sequence to use the objective lens to observe a specimen using a compound light microscope?
- A.
Scanning - High - Low
- B.
Scanning - Low - High
- C.
Low - Scanning - High
- D.
High - Low - Scanning
Correct Answer
B. Scanning - Low - HighExplanation
The correct sequence to use the objective lens to observe a specimen using a compound light microscope is scanning, low, and high. The scanning objective lens is used first to locate the specimen and get a general overview. Then, the low-power objective lens is used to obtain a more detailed view of the specimen. Finally, the high-power objective lens is used to observe the specimen at the highest magnification for fine details.Rate this question:
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- 15.
The stage stop is part of the compound light microscope that prevents the objective lens from cracking the coverslip and microscope slide.
- A.
True
- B.
False
Correct Answer
A. TrueExplanation
The stage stop is a crucial component of the compound light microscope as it serves to prevent the objective lens from cracking the coverslip and microscope slide. This is important because the objective lens is in close proximity to the slide, and any contact or pressure could potentially damage or break the coverslip. The stage stop acts as a physical barrier, ensuring that the objective lens does not come into direct contact with the slide, thus preventing any potential damage. Therefore, the statement is true.Rate this question:
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- 16.
It is a good practice to observe specimens through the ocular of the compound light microscope with both eyes open.
- A.
True
- B.
False
Correct Answer
A. TrueExplanation
Observing specimens through the ocular of a compound light microscope with both eyes open is considered a good practice because it allows for better depth perception and a wider field of view. This helps in accurately observing and interpreting the details of the specimen being viewed. Additionally, using both eyes can reduce eye strain and fatigue during prolonged periods of observation.Rate this question:
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- 17.
When do you add a stain to a wet mount prepared specimen?
- A.
After placing coverslip on specimen
- B.
After adding water before coverslip
- C.
Remove coverslip after specimen is prepared
- D.
Before specimen is placed on microscope slide (company only)
Correct Answer
A. After placing coverslip on specimenExplanation
Adding a stain to a wet mount prepared specimen after placing the coverslip on the specimen is the correct answer because adding the stain before placing the coverslip would dilute the stain and make it less effective. Removing the coverslip after the specimen is prepared would disturb the specimen and potentially ruin the slide. Adding the stain before placing the specimen on the microscope slide is not necessary as the stain is typically added directly to the specimen on the slide.Rate this question:
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- 18.
Place a specimen that you wish to observe on the microscope slide. Which position should the specimen be placed? (hint: This is a position on the microscope slide.)
- A.
Left margin of microscope slide
- B.
Right margin of microscope slide
- C.
Center of microscope slide
- D.
On top of the cover slip
Correct Answer
C. Center of microscope slideExplanation
The specimen should be placed in the center of the microscope slide. Placing it in the center ensures that it is evenly distributed on the slide, allowing for easy observation and focusing under the microscope. Placing it on the left or right margin may result in an uneven distribution of the specimen, making it difficult to view. Placing it on top of the cover slip is also not ideal, as the cover slip is typically used to protect the specimen and prevent it from drying out, rather than as a position for observation.Rate this question:
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- 19.
You should place the compound light microscope on your lab table at least _____ centimeters from the edge of the table.
- A.
2
- B.
5
- C.
10
- D.
20
Correct Answer
B. 5Explanation
The compound light microscope should be placed at least 5 centimeters from the edge of the lab table. This is important to ensure stability and prevent accidental knocking or falling of the microscope. Placing it too close to the edge increases the risk of damage to the microscope or potential injury.Rate this question:
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- 20.
If your microscope has a lamp as the light source, be careful not to touch the bulb of the lamp. The bulb can get very hot.
- A.
True
- B.
False
Correct Answer
A. TrueExplanation
The explanation for the given correct answer is that when a microscope has a lamp as the light source, the bulb of the lamp can get very hot. Therefore, it is important to be careful and avoid touching the bulb to prevent any burns or accidents.Rate this question:
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- 21.
Place a prepared slide over the _____ in the stage, and secure the slide with the stage clips.
- A.
Stage stop screw
- B.
Hole
- C.
Left edge
- D.
Right edge
Correct Answer
B. HoleExplanation
To secure a prepared slide on the stage, it is necessary to place it over the hole in the stage and then use the stage clips to secure it. The hole in the stage provides a designated area where the slide can be properly positioned and held in place. This ensures that the slide remains stable during observation and prevents it from moving or falling off the stage.Rate this question:
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- 22.
When you look through the eyepiece, and move the _____ to adjust the amount of _____ that passes through the specimen.
- A.
Coverslip : High-power objective
- B.
Ocular : Light
- C.
Diaphragm : Light
- D.
Revolving Nosepiece : Diaphragm
Correct Answer
C. Diaphragm : LightExplanation
When you look through the eyepiece, you can adjust the amount of light that passes through the specimen by moving the diaphragm. The diaphragm is a part of the microscope that controls the amount of light that reaches the specimen. By adjusting the diaphragm, you can increase or decrease the brightness of the light, which can help improve the visibility and clarity of the specimen under the microscope.Rate this question:
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- 23.
What is the correct position for the fine adjustment knob, before you begin using your compound light microscope?
- A.
Moved to the left of your microscope
- B.
Moved to the right of your microscope
- C.
In the middle (balanced) position
- D.
It makes no difference on focusing
Correct Answer
C. In the middle (balanced) positionExplanation
The correct position for the fine adjustment knob before using a compound light microscope is in the middle (balanced) position. This is because the fine adjustment knob is used to make small, precise adjustments to the focus of the microscope. By starting in the middle position, you ensure that the focus is not too far in one direction, making it easier to fine-tune and achieve a clear image.Rate this question:
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- 24.
You can use the coarse adjustment when viewing through the high-power objective.
- A.
True
- B.
False
Correct Answer
B. FalseExplanation
The statement is false because the coarse adjustment should not be used when viewing through the high-power objective. The coarse adjustment is used to initially focus the specimen when using the low-power objective, while the fine adjustment is used for fine-tuning the focus when using the high-power objective. Using the coarse adjustment with the high-power objective can result in damage to the microscope or the specimen.Rate this question:
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- 25.
What is the name of the large knob used for focusing the image under low-power called? (Note: Please use all lower case letters in your three word answer.)
Correct Answer
coarse adjustment knobExplanation
The large knob used for focusing the image under low-power is called the coarse adjustment knob. This knob is used to make rough adjustments to the focus of the image, allowing for clearer viewing of the specimen.Rate this question:
- 26.
What supports the tube and connects it to the base? (NOTE: please enter your answer in lower case letters.)
Correct Answer
armExplanation
The arm supports the tube and connects it to the base.Rate this question:
- 27.
What is the lens that you look through when observing a specimen?(NOTE: Please enter your one word answer in all lower case letters.)
Correct Answer
eyepiece, ocularExplanation
The lens that you look through when observing a specimen is called the eyepiece or ocular.Rate this question:
- 28.
What is the flat platform where you place your slides?(Note: Please enter your 1-word answer in lower case letters.)
Correct Answer
stageExplanation
The correct answer is "stage" because it is the flat platform where you place your slides.Rate this question:
- 29.
What are the low power and high power lenses that magnify the object called?(Note: Please enter your 2-word answer in lower case letters.)
Correct Answer
objective lensesExplanation
Objective lenses are the low power and high power lenses that magnify the object. These lenses are commonly used in microscopes to provide different levels of magnification. The low power objective lens has a lower magnification power and is typically used to view larger specimens or to get a wider field of view. On the other hand, the high power objective lens has a higher magnification power and is used to view smaller and more detailed specimens. Both lenses together allow for a range of magnification options when observing objects under a microscope.Rate this question:
- 30.
What is the name of number 13 in the image below?
- A.
Stage
- B.
Stage Clips
- C.
Eyepiece
- D.
Nosepiece
- E.
Light source
Correct Answer
C. Eyepiece -
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