Microscopes are instruments used to see objects that are too small to see with the naked eye. Microscopes are used to investigate small objects and structures and have been used since the very early days of science, particularly in the fields of biology and microbiology. Microscopes come in a broad spectrum of observation methods and microscope types that are useful for a wide range of applications. Observation methods include; Brightfield, Darkfield, Fluorescence, Polarized Light, Phase Contrast and Material Science Metallography (MET). Microscope types include; Upright Microscopes, Inverted Microscopes, Stereoscopic Microscopes, Digital Microscopes, Refractometers and Polarimeters. Different types of microscopes and microscope technologies are best suited to different and specific applications.
Upright Microscopes
The classical upright microscope, also known as a compound microscope, is one in which the objectives face downwards, observing the specimen from above. They generally provide high power magnifications (40x - 1,000x) with step magnification (multiple objectives for different magnifications). They are used to observe specimens and microscope slides in 2D.
Inverted Microscopes
With inverted microscopes the objectives face upwards, observing the specimen from below. This is useful for observing cultures, living cells and organisms at the bottom of containers such as culture flask. They give great freedom and versatility, enabling the observation of more samples in a shorter amount of time, while the preparation of specimens is also much easier and faster.
Stereoscopic Microscopes
Stereoscopic microscopes allow your brain and eyes to work together to produce a stereoscopic image with more depth, forming spatial 3D images of the objects being observed. Stereoscopic microscopes take advantage of our depth perception ability by transmitting twin images that are inclined (usually between 10°-12°) to yield a true stereoscopic effect.
Digital Microscopes
Digital microscopes provide fantastic images and live videos of your samples on a screen. You can choose from a variety of cameras suited to a wide variety of microscopy applications. CCD or CMOS sensors, high speed cameras, super sensitive cameras, high resolution models, those for windows tablets and PCs and some other valuable solutions are available for almost every application.
Refractometers
A wide range of hand refractometers are available to ensure incredibly rapid and convenient measurement of concentrations in liquids and semi-solid samples, combining accurate performance with excellent repeatability. The refractive index of a substance is related to its specific density and a refractometer is used to measure the purity or the concentration of a sample when mixed.
Polarimeters
Polarimetry measures the rotation of polarized light as it passes through an optically active fluid. The measured rotation can be used to calculate solution concentrations, especially in substances such as sugars, peptides and volatile oils.
Find out more about the variety of different Microscopes available at Pipette.com today.