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Using a Microscope

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Before getting the microscope

  • Clear off the desktop

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  • Clear the aisles of chairs and bags

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Getting the Microscope

  • Always carry with both hands
  • Hold the ARM of the microscope with one hand
  • Place hand under the BASE

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Setting up the Lab

  • Place the microscope in the center of the table
  • Using lens paper, gently wipe all the lenses
  • Start with the low power objective facing down
  • Lower the lens all the way to the stage using the coarse adjustment knob

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Getting the Maximum Light

  • Open the diaphragm all the way
  • While looking in the eyepiece, adjust the mirror until there is the most light possible

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Getting the Slide

  • Grab the slide by the label
  • Using lens paper, clean the slide
  • Place the slide carefully on the stage and under the stage clips

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Doing the Lab

  • While looking in the eyepiece, use the coarse adjustment knob to get the slide roughly into focus
  • To get a sharper picture, use the fine adjustment knob

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Doing the Lab - continued

  • If necessary, turn from the low power objective to a higher power lens
  • Refocus the slide using only the fine adjustment knob
  • Draw and label the slide that is being looked at

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Cleaning up the Lab

  • Make sure the low power objective is facing down
  • Grabbing the label, move the stage clips and remove the slide and put it in the box that holds slides
  • Put the body tube as close to the stage as possible
  • Using 2 hands, carry the microscope back where it belongs
  • Put away all papers and clean up the lab area