Microscope Labelling Worksheet
Fourteen parts to label, with an answer key and function questions.
A labelling exercise for the compound microscope. Print or copy the list, have students write the function beside each part from memory, then check against the key.
Students who need the diagram explained before attempting this should read compound microscope parts labeled first.
Part 1 — label these fourteen parts
- Eyepiece (ocular lens)
- Body tube
- Revolving nosepiece
- Objective lenses
- Arm
- Stage
- Stage clips
- Mechanical stage control
- Condenser
- Iris diaphragm
- Illuminator
- Base
- Coarse adjustment knob
- Fine adjustment knob
Part 2 — answer key
| Part | Function |
|---|---|
| Eyepiece | Magnifies the objective's image, usually 10× |
| Body tube | Holds the correct optical distance between lens systems |
| Revolving nosepiece | Rotates objectives into the light path |
| Objective lenses | Form the magnified real image; set resolution |
| Arm | Supports the tube; the correct carrying point |
| Stage | Platform supporting the slide |
| Stage clips | Hold the slide in position |
| Mechanical stage control | Moves the slide precisely on two axes |
| Condenser | Focuses light into a cone at the specimen |
| Iris diaphragm | Sets the width of the illuminating cone — contrast |
| Illuminator | Light source |
| Base | Supports the instrument |
| Coarse adjustment | Large focus movement, low power only |
| Fine adjustment | Small focus movement, required above 100× |
Part 3 — short answer
- A 40× objective with a 10× eyepiece gives what total magnification?
- Why must coarse focus not be used with the 40× objective?
- Which control adjusts contrast, and which adjusts brightness?
- Why does the 100× objective require immersion oil?
- Give one specimen suited to brightfield and one that needs phase contrast.
Answers to Part 3 are covered in parts and functions, objective lenses and brightfield and phase contrast.