3
Diopter Adjustment
The adjustment of the eyepiece
of an instrument to provide
accommodation for the eyesight
differences of individual
observers.
Depth of Focus
The axial depth of the space on
both sides of the image plane
within which the image is sharp.
The larger the N.A. of objective,
the shallower the depth of focus.
Field of View (F.O.V.)
That part of the image field,
which is imaged on the
observer’s retina, and hence can
be viewed at any one time. The
field of view number is now one
of the standard markings of the
eyepiece.
Filter
Filters are optical elements
that selectively transmit light.
It may absorb part of the
spectrum, or reduce overhaul
intensity or transmit only specific
wavelengths.
Immersion Oil
Any liquid occupying the
space between the object and
microscope objective. Such
a liquid is usually required by
objectives of 3-mm focal length
or less.
Resolving Power
A measure of an optical system's
ability to produce an image
which separates two points or
parallel lines on the object.
Resolution
The result of displaying fine details in
an image
Total Magnification
The total magnification of a microscope
is the individual magnifying power of
the objective multiplied by that of the
eyepiece.
Working Distance
This is the distance between the
objective front lens and the top of the
cover glass when the specimen is in
focus. In most instances, the working
distance of an objective decreases as
magnification increases.
X–axis Stage Travel
The axis that is usually horizontal in a
two-dimensional coordinate system.
In microscopy X-axis of the specimen
stages is considered that which runs
left to right.
Y–axis Stage Travel
The axis that is usually vertical in a
two-dimensional coordinate system.
In microscopy Y-axis of the specimen
stages is considered that which runs
front to back.
