Optical microscopes:

Light Microscope: Definition

Optical or light microscopy as shown in the Figure 10.02 involves passing visible light transmitted through or reflected from the sample through a single or multiple lenses to allow a magnified view of the sample.

Figure 10.02: Schematic of light microscope.

The resulting image can be detected directly by the eye and/or imaged on a photographic plate or captured digitally.

The single lens with its attachments, or the system of lenses and imaging equipment, along with the appropriate lighting equipment, sample stage and support, makes up the basic light microscope.