PROJECT EXPO REPORT

ON

Microscope: Journey into the Minuscule

DEPARTMENT OF ZOOLOGY
SCHOOL OF BASIC AND APPLIED SCIENCES
CAREER POINT UNIVERSITY
KOTA (RAJASTHAN)
2024
 CONTENTS

1. INTRODUCTION
2. HISTORY
3. TYPES OF MICROSCOPE
4. PARTS OF COMPOUND MICROSCOPE
5. MAGNIFICATION OF A COMPOUND MICROSCOPE
6. WORKING OF A COMPOUND MICROSCOPE
7. ADVANTAGES
8. DISADVANTAGES
9. ABOUT PROJECT
INTRODUCTION
A microscope is a scientific instrument used to magnify small objects or details that are not
visible to the naked eye. It allows scientists, researchers, and students to observe
microorganisms, cells, tissues, and other tiny structures at high magnification. These are
essential tools for scientific discovery, particularly in fields like biology, medicine, chemistry,
and material science. They enable the study of microorganisms, cells, tissues, and viruses,
which are crucial for understanding life at the microscopic level. These are important tools in
education, allowing students to explore the microscopic world, fostering interest in science and
biology.
HISTORY
The invention of the microscope dates to the late 16th century, with pioneers like Antonie van
Leeuwenhoek and Robert Hooke contributing to its development. Antonie van Leeuwenhoek,
a Dutch scientist, is often called the "Father of Microbiology."
Era Milestone Description
Ancient Times Use of lenses Simple magnifying lenses were used to
enlarge objects.
1590 Invention of compound Hans and Zacharias Janssen developed
microscope the first compound microscope.
1674 Advancements by van Observed microorganisms using
Leeuwenhoek improved lenses.
Modern Era Electron microscopy and High-resolution electron microscopes and
advanced imaging confocal systems introduced.

TYPES OF MICROSCOPE
Microscopes are broadly classified based on their design and application. Common types
include optical microscopes, electron microscopes, and specialized microscopes for advanced
imaging.
No. Type Sub- Principle Key Features Applications
Type/Example
1 Optical Simple Magnifies Uses a single Basic
Microscopes Microscope objects by lens for low magnification
bending light magnification. for small
through a objects (e.g.,
single convex magnifying
lens. glass).
Compound Uses multiple Achieves Studying cells,
Microscope lenses to higher tissues, and
magnify and magnification microorganisms
resolve details (up to 1000x). in biology and
by bending education.
light rays.
Stereomicroscope Combines two Offers a 3D Dissections,
optical paths to perspective; observing
provide a lower surfaces of
stereoscopic magnification. small
(3D) view of organisms and
objects. objects.
2 Electron Transmission Electrons pass Produces high- Studying cell
Microscopes Electron through the magnification organelles,
Microscope specimen; images (up to 2 viruses, and
(TEM) magnification million times) nanoscale
is achieved by of internal materials.
electromagnetic structures.
lenses.
Scanning Electron beams Creates 3D Observing the
Electron scan the surface surface images surface
Microscope of the with detailed structure of
(SEM) specimen, and morphology. metals, crystals,
reflected and biological
electrons form samples.
the image.
3 Fluorescence N/A Fluorescent Visualizes Cell biology,
Microscope dyes or specific studying
proteins absorb components of proteins, DNA,
specific cells or tissues and other
wavelengths with bright molecules.
and emit light fluorescence.
at longer
wavelengths.
4 Confocal N/A A laser scans Captures sharp, Imaging thick
Microscope the specimen, high-resolution biological
and light from images; allows specimens and
specific focal 3D 3D
planes is reconstructions. reconstructions.
 detected for
sharp imaging.
5 Phase- N/A Converts phase Enhances Observing live
Contrast differences in contrast in cells and their
Microscope light waves unstained structures.
passing through specimens,
transparent useful for live
specimens into cells.
intensity.
6 Polarizing N/A Uses polarized Studies Mineralogy,
Microscope light to analyze anisotropic studying
birefringent materials like crystals, and
properties in crystals and stress analysis
specimens. minerals. in materials.

PARTS OF COMPOUND MICROSCOPE

The optical part of the microscope includes (Fig. 1):
1. Eyepiece (Ocular Lens)
• Function: The part through which the user looks to observe the magnified image. It
usually has a magnification of 10x.
2. Objective Lenses
• Function: These are the primary lenses that magnify the specimen. They are mounted on
the rotating nosepiece and provide different magnifications (e.g., 4x, 10x, 40x, 100x).
3. Nosepiece
• Function: The rotating part that holds the objective lenses. It allows the user to easily
switch between different objective lenses to change magnification.
4. Stage
• Function: The flat platform where the specimen slide is placed. It has clips to hold the
slide in place.
5. Stage Clips
• Function: Small metal clips used to hold the specimen slide securely in place on the stage.
6. Coarse Adjustment Knob
• Function: Used to bring the specimen into general focus by moving the stage up and down
in larger increments. It is typically used when starting with low magnification.
7. Fine Adjustment Knob
• Function: Allows for fine-tuning of the focus to obtain a sharp, clear image, especially
when using high magnification.
8. Condenser Lens
• Function: Focuses the light onto the specimen. It ensures that the light is evenly
distributed across the sample for a clearer image.
9. Diaphragm (Aperture)
• Function: Regulates the amount of light that passes through the condenser to the specimen.
It can be adjusted to increase or decrease the brightness.
10. Illuminator (Light Source)
• Function: Provides light to illuminate the specimen. It can be an electric bulb or LED.
11. Arm
• Function: Supports the body tube and connects the microscope to the base. It is used to
carry the microscope.
12. Base
• Function: Provides stability and support for the entire microscope. It holds the light source
and other components.
13. Body Tube
• Function: Connects the eyepiece to the objective lenses. It holds the optical components
that direct light from the objective lenses to the eyepiece.
14. Revolving Nosepiece
• Function: Holds multiple objective lenses and allows the user to rotate and select the lens
they want to use.

Fig. 1. Parts of Compound Microscope

MAGNIFICATION OF A COMPOUND MICROSCOPE
Magnification in a compound microscope is achieved by the combined effect of the objective
lens and the eyepiece lens. The total magnification is calculated as:
Total Magnification = Objective Magnification × Eyepiece Magnification
Lens Typical Magnification Levels
Objective Lenses Low Power: 4x or 5x
Medium Power: 10x
High Power: 40x
Oil Immersion: 100x
Eyepiece Lenses Standard:10x
Optional: 15x or 20x

Total Magnification Ranges from 40x (4x × 10x) to 1000x (100x × 10x).
Factors Affecting Magnification
1. Numerical Aperture (NA): Determines the resolving power and clarity.
2. Light Source: Affects image brightness and contrast at high magnifications.
3. Immersion Oil: Used with the 100x objective to minimize light refraction and increase
clarity.
WORKING OF A COMPOUND MICROSCOPE
The compound microscope works on the principle of optical magnification using two lens
systems: the objective lens and the eyepiece lens. Here’s a step-by-step explanation of its
working:
1. Illumination:
o A light source (built-in lamp or mirror) illuminates the specimen placed on the
stage.
o The light passes through the condenser lens, which focuses it onto the specimen.
2. Specimen Placement:
o The specimen is mounted on a glass slide and positioned on the mechanical
stage.
o It is secured with stage clips, and the stage can be adjusted to align the specimen
with the objective lens.
 3. Objective Lens Function:
o The objective lens collects the light that passes through or reflects off the
specimen and magnifies the image.
o This magnified image is called the real image, formed inside the microscope
body.
4. Eyepiece Lens Function:
o The real image is further magnified by the eyepiece lens to produce a virtual
image, which is viewed by the observer.
o The virtual image appears larger and inverted compared to the actual specimen.
5. Focusing:
o Coarse focus adjusts the stage or the objective lens for general alignment and
clarity.
o Fine focus makes precise adjustments to sharpen the image.
6. Magnification:
o Total magnification is achieved by combining the magnification powers of the
objective and eyepiece lenses.
o For example, a 40x objective lens with a 10x eyepiece provides a total
magnification of 400x.
7. Observation:
o The user observes the magnified and illuminated image through the eyepiece.
o Adjustments to the diaphragm and light intensity enhance contrast and
resolution.
Component Function
Light Source Provides illumination for clear visibility.
Condenser Lens Focuses light onto the specimen.
Objective Lens Magnifies the specimen and creates the real image.
Eyepiece Lens Magnifies the real image into a larger virtual image for viewing.
Ensures a sharp and detailed view of the specimen at different
Focusing Mechanism
depths.
ADVANTAGES
Advantage Description
High Magnification Magnifies up to 1000x, suitable for observing cells and
microorganisms.
Improved Resolution Offers clear and detailed images of closely spaced structures.
Cost-Effective Affordable compared to advanced microscopes like electron
microscopes.
Ease of Use User-friendly design with simple focusing and illumination
controls.
Versatile Applicable for biology, microbiology, pathology, and educational
Applications purposes.
Portable and Lightweight and easily transportable.
Compact
Dual Lens System Combines objective and eyepiece lenses for enhanced
magnification and clarity.

DISADVANTAGES
Disadvantage Description
Limited Magnification Maximum magnification (1000x) insufficient for observing
viruses or molecules.
Dependency on Light Requires proper lighting for clear visibility, limiting use in low-
light conditions.
Limited Depth of Field Cannot focus on all layers of thick specimens simultaneously.
Lower Resolution Resolution is inferior to electron microscopes for
ultrastructural studies.
Maintenance Required Optical lenses and mechanical parts need careful handling and
periodic cleaning.
No Live Video Support Cannot record or project live images without additional digital
attachments.
ABOUT PROJECT
MATERIAL USED:
• Lens: High-quality optical lenses for magnification
• Light Source: Mobile light for illumination
• Stage: Wooden stage for slide movement
• Magnification Power: Varies from 4x to10x
• Focusing Mechanism: Coarse and fine focusing knobs of plastic bottle cap
• Materials: Durable plastic bottles

OBJECTIVE:
1. Magnification of Small Objects: The main goal is to magnify small objects or biological
samples (like plant cells) that the naked eye cannot see clearly.
2. Understanding Optics: To demonstrate the fundamental concepts of lenses, focal points,
and magnification to enhance understanding of how light and lenses interact.
3. Accessibility and Low-Cost: To create a functional microscope that is inexpensive, using
readily available materials, like a magnifying glass or small lenses.
4. Simple Focusing Mechanism: To allow users to practice the focusing process, either by
adjusting the position of the sample or the lens to achieve a clear image.
5. Practical Application: To allow users to explore basic specimens and conduct simple
experiments, such as observing pollen, hair strands, or small insects.
6. Improved Observation: To improve the user’s ability to see fine details of everyday
objects, using simple tools like lenses, mirrors, and lights.
7. Hands-On Project: To create a fun and engaging DIY project that allows the user to
understand how a microscope functions from a mechanical perspective.