Microscope Parts and Functions

1. Eyepiece – the part you look through

2. Course Adjustment Knob – the large knob which, when turned, brings the image of the object into focus

3. Fine Adjustment Knob

4. Arm – connects the top with the base

5. Light Source – the lamp that sends light through the object being viewed

6. Diaphragm – controls the amount of light entering the field of view.

7. Base – the bottom, supporting structure

8. Stage – the flat part on which the slide is placed

9. Clip – holds the slide in place

10. High Power Lens – the objective lens usually magnifying an object being viewed about 40 times (40x)

11. Scanner Lens – the objective lens with the lowest magnification (4x), usually used to locate objects being viewed

12. Nosepiece – the part where the objective lenses are attached and can be turned

13. Body Tube connects the eyepiece with the objective lens

14. Low Power Lens – the objective lens usually magnifying an object being viewed at 10 times (10x)