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Microscopes

Definition

Microscopes are instruments used for viewing objects that are too small to be seen with the naked eye. They use lenses or a combination of lenses and mirrors to magnify tiny details, allowing us to study cells, microorganisms, and other microscopic structures.

Analogy

Think of microscopes as super-powered glasses for scientists. Just like how glasses help people with poor vision see things clearly, microscopes help scientists see tiny things clearly.

Related terms

Compound Microscope: A type of microscope that uses multiple lenses (objective lens and eyepiece) for high magnification.

Electron Microscope: A powerful microscope that uses a beam of electrons instead of light waves for even higher magnification.

Scanning Probe Microscope: A type of microscope that scans a sharp probe over a sample's surface to create detailed images at the atomic level.

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AP® and SAT® are trademarks registered by the College Board, which is not affiliated with, and does not endorse this website.