What Can You Expect During Light Microscopy Testing?

During light microscopy testing, you can expect to see samples of crystalline substances, cell walls, and tissues. You may also see thin films and crystalline components. The procedure will also involve observation and photography. The lab assistant will explain the steps of the test to you.

Specimen Preparation

Specimen preparation is essential to light microscopy testing, particularly when examining living cells. Various sample preparation techniques have been developed to obtain satisfactory results. Some specimens can be mounted directly on a slide, but others require additional steps to achieve the required surface quality. For example, some samples must be fixed in chemical fixatives to preserve the tissue. The sample’s water is removed so it does not mix with the embedding media.

Specimen preparation during light microscopical testing can improve results by preventing the growth of microorganisms and ensuring that samples do not decay. Fixation also helps preserve the molecular structure of the specimen, making it easier to stain. Therefore, the earlier fixation is performed, the better the results. Formaldehyde in a phosphate-buffered solution is the most common fixing agent used.

Optimal Illumination

One of the essential things that light microscopy at Microvision Labs can do is to ensure that specimens are observed with optimal illumination. This allows for crisp, clear images and even descriptions over the entire model. The illumination system should be adjusted to provide the best resolution and contrast and use Kohler illumination for the best results.

Light microscopy can be used to detect intestinal parasites on stool samples. The light microscope is best suited to detect such organisms, but many are not helpful for this type of analysis. The handy images show different cells, but they lack the subcellular detail of light microscopy.

Photographing

Light microscopy testing involves the process of taking photographs of specimens. The camera’s image is magnified to reproduce the same magnification as the specimen. This generally results in a high-quality photograph, but the image’s magnification depends on various factors.

There are several different methods to prepare specimens for light microscopy testing. First, fixation is a process that involves attaching the cells to the slide, and this is accomplished by chemically or heat-treating the specimen. This process kills microorganisms but preserves the integrity of the cellular components.

Then, the microscope uses a series of lenses that rotate on a turret. Depending on the type of microscope, these lenses have different magnifications. For example, a 4X lens will provide an unenhanced view of the specimen, while a 20X lens will give a closer look. A 40X to 60X lens will offer a high magnification. A 100X lens is usually made specifically for use with oil immersion and has a higher N.A.

Results Analysis

During light microscopy testing, results are often analyzed using several different techniques. These techniques depend on the material being analyzed, which will determine the characterization process used. The characterization process begins with specific questions about the specimen that needs to be answered. Once the sample is prepared, the analyst can choose from various compositional, imaging, and crystallographic techniques.

The unaided human eye can resolve features as small as 100 mm, but advanced light microscopes can see elements of just one nanometer in size. Alternatively, electron microscopes and TEMs use electrons, which have shorter wavelengths and higher energies than visible light, allowing them to resolve much smaller objects. Finally, a transmission electron microscope can resolve features down to the atomic level. All three types of microscopy are helpful in materials analysis.

We are not doctors and this is in no way intended to be used as medical advice and we cannot be held responsible for your results. As with any product, service or supplement, use at your own risk. Always do your own research before using.