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Description
In order to realize the full potential of the optical microscope, one must have a firm grasp of the fundamental physical principles surrounding its operation. Important topics for understanding the microscope, such as resolution, numerical aperture, depth of field, image brightness, objective working distance, field of view, conjugate planes, and the useful magnification range, are discussed in the review articles linked below. A discussion of several new features available from the manufacturers. - Conjugate Planes in Optical Microscopy Image-forming and aperture planes form two independent focal sets in the optical train. - Depth of Field and Depth of Focus Fundamentals of the axial or longitudinal properties of microscope objectives. - Field of View The eyepiece field diaphragm determines the diameter (size) of the microscope viewfield. - Refractive Index (Index of Refraction) The ratio of the speed of light in a vacuum to that in the imaging medium of a microscope. - Coverslip Correction Adjustments to the microscope objective to compensate for coverslip thickness variations. - Two Beam Interferometry Microscopy using interference created between two independent light pathways. - Multiple-Beam Interferometry Measuring interference in light beams that have undergone multiple reflections. The ability of a microscope objective to gather light and resolve fine specimen detail. - Resolution The resolving power of a microscope is the most important feature of the optical system. - Useful Magnification Range Selecting the best combination of objective and eyepiece for the numerical aperture. - Working Distance and Parfocal Length The distance between the objective front lens or the nosepiece and the specimen. - Image Brightness Brightness is proportional to either the square or the fourth power of the numerical aperture. - Laser Safety Increased use of lasers demands attention to safety features in optical microscopy. - Basic Microscope Ergonomics Modern microscopes feature user-friendly ergonomics that reduce fatigue and stress. - Linear Measurements (Micrometry) A comprehensive review of eyepiece reticles and stage micrometers for measurements.