Category: January, 2009

Papaya (Carica papaya) in Polarized Light

A piece of papaya was squeezed between the microscope slide and cover glass. The sample was observed in polarized light.

Increasing Contrast using Optical Methods

Many microscopic specimens are either very thin or transparent or lack color. They lack contrast and can not be easily seen in bright microscope light. In many cases it is not possible or desirable to chemically stain the specimens. In this case, optical techniques become necessary to enhance contrast.

Making a Soil Culture for Growing Algae

It may be necessary to grow large amounts of green algae (and other microorganisms) to be used for microscopic observations in schools. A soil culture allows you to enrich various types of algae.

Wood of the Spruce Tree (Picea)

The wood of a spruce tree (whitewood) under the microscope. The annual rings are clearly visible.

Spirogyra Algae

Microscopic picture of the algae Spirogyra. The algae possesses a spiral shaped chloroplast, which is clearly visible in the cell.

Vitamin C (Ascorbic Acid) Crystals

Both images depict Vitamin C (Ascorbic Acid) crystals under low magnification using crossed polarizing filters.

Sand from the Kalahari Desert

Sand from the Kalahari desert under the microscope. Dark field illumination.

Electron Microscopes vs. Optical (Light) microscopes

This post outlines the advantages and disadvantages of electron microscopes in contrast to optical (light) microscopes. Each type of microscope is designed for different areas of applications.

Elderberry (Sambucus)

Microscopic image of the cross section through the stem of an elder plant (Sambucus)

Shaving Foam

Shaving foam under the microscope. Dark field illumination.