Microscopy

Microscopy is a scientific technique used to observe and study objects that are too small to be seen with the naked eye. It involves the use of microscopes, which magnify the image of the object being studied. There are several types of microscopy, including light microscopy, electron microscopy, and scanning probe microscopy, each with its own advantages and applications. Microscopy is widely used in various fields such as biology, medicine, materials science, and nanotechnology to study the structure and properties of microscopic objects.

Microscopy

Definition:
Microscopy is the technique of using a microscope to examine and analyze small objects or structures that are otherwise difficult or impossible to observe with the naked eye.

Types of Microscopy:

- Light Microscopy: Uses visible light to illuminate the specimen and create an image.
- Bright-field microscopy
- Dark-field microscopy
- Phase-contrast microscopy
- Fluorescence microscopy
- Electron Microscopy: Uses a beam of electrons to illuminate the specimen.
- Transmission electron microscopy (TEM)
- Scanning electron microscopy (SEM)
- Scanning Probe Microscopy: Uses a physical probe to scan the specimen's surface.
- Atomic force microscopy (AFM)
- Scanning tunneling microscopy (STM)
- X-ray Microscopy: Uses X-rays to illuminate the specimen.

Components of a Microscope:

- Eyepiece: Lens where the observer looks through.
- Objective Lens: Lens that gathers light from the specimen.
- Stage: Platform where the specimen is placed.
- Condenser: Lens that concentrates light on the specimen.
- Illumination Source: Source of light, typically a bulb or LED.

Applications of Microscopy:

- Biological Science: Study of cells, tissues, and organisms.
- Materials Science: Characterization of materials' structure and composition.
- Medical Diagnosis: Detection of pathogens and other abnormalities in tissue samples.
- Industrial Inspection: Examination of manufactured products for defects and quality control.
- Forensics: Analysis of evidence in criminal investigations.

Resolution and Magnification:

- Resolution: Ability of a microscope to distinguish between two closely spaced objects.
- Magnification: Ability of a microscope to make an object appear larger.
- Magnification and resolution are inversely related.

Important Terms:

- Field of View: Area visible through the eyepiece.
- Depth of Field: Range of distances from the focal plane that appear in focus.
- Numerical Aperture: Measure of the microscope's ability to gather light and resolve fine details.
- Contrast: Difference in brightness between different parts of the specimen.

Advancements in Microscopy:

- Super-resolution microscopy
- Live-cell imaging
- Cryo-microscopy
- Electron cryo-microscopy

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