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How does a microscope work?

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Quick answer

A microscope works by using lenses to bend light and magnify tiny objects far beyond what the eye can see. Light passes through the specimen and a series of lenses enlarge the image, revealing cells, microbes, and fine structures. Light shines through or onto a tiny specimen.

Step by step

  1. Light shines through or onto a tiny specimen.
  2. An objective lens close to the sample makes a magnified image.
  3. An eyepiece lens magnifies that image further.
  4. Total magnification is the two lenses multiplied together.
  5. Electron microscopes use electron beams to see even smaller things.

People also ask

How does a microscope magnify?
Two lenses work together: an objective lens enlarges the specimen, and the eyepiece enlarges that image again, multiplying the magnification.
What's the limit of a light microscope?
Light's wavelength limits it to objects no smaller than about 200 nanometers; electron microscopes go far beyond that.
What can you see with a microscope?
Cells, bacteria, blood components, and fine details of materials — things far too small for the naked eye.