Posts that relate to the Keyword: filter

How to make microscope filters

Commercial microscope filters are usually made of stained glass. In the case of patch stops (as used in dark-field illumination), they may be made of aluminum. The dark-field patch stops block some of the light and the specimen will appear bright on dark background. The traditional way of DIY patch stops is cutting them out [...]

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.

Darkfield Microscopy

Darkfield microscopy is one of the simplest and cheapest contrast enhancing techniques. It works well for specimens that have a refractive index which is different from its surrounding medium, but which are difficult to see because they lack color. Dark field microscopy shows the specimen bright on a dark background.