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.

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.

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

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

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

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

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.

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