Choosing the best microscope resolution can be difficult, but three guidelines can help: choose a resolution that won’t harm the specimen, choose the resolution with the most desired subject in view, and choose the resolution that allows for a clear view. Start at the lowest resolution and work up.
Sometimes it can be difficult to figure out what is the best microscope resolution to use, especially for new microscopeists. There are, however, three simple guidelines that can help even the most inexperienced beginner choose the best microscope resolution. The guidelines are to choose the resolution that won’t harm your specimen, choose the resolution that has the greatest amount of the desired subject in the field of view, and choose the resolution that allows for a clear view of the subject. These three guidelines will be explained in more detail below.
First, make sure you choose a resolution that won’t damage the sample. But how can choosing a specific resolution harm a specimen? One way is through oil. Very high resolution lenses require the use of oil or other liquids which can damage specimens or destroy inadequately prepared slides. Another way a specimen can be harmed is through physical force. If the microscope lens is too large, it can push against a sample and crush it if the user isn’t careful. These factors should be taken into consideration before using a lens to achieve a specific resolution.
Secondly, choose the resolution that presents the greatest amount of the desired topic in the field of view. If a microscopist can only see a small part of something in the corner of the eyepiece, then a higher resolution probably needs to be used. As long as no physical damage has occurred to the specimen and time permits, a microscopist should feel free to try a higher resolution to determine if it allows more of the desired object to be seen.
Thirdly, use the resolution that allows for a clear view of the subject. If a microscopist cannot see the subject clearly, it doesn’t matter how far in the field of view. Each time you increase the resolution, more light will be needed to see the subject properly; if more light is not available, a lower resolution should be used. Also, if a microscopist cannot get the (fuzzy) subject into focus at a specific resolution, a different resolution should be used.
In addition to these three guidelines, keep in mind standard microscope practices when choosing the best microscope resolution. Start at the lowest possible resolution and focus on your subject. Go down to the next lower resolution, adjusting focus and lighting as needed. Then follow the three guidelines until you determine the best microscope resolution.
Protect your devices with Threat Protection by NordVPN
