🔍 Magnification

Definition: How many times larger an image appears compared to the actual object

Total Magnification Formula:

Total Magnification = Eyepiece × Objective Lens

Example: ×10 eyepiece × ×40 objective = ×400 total magnification

Common Combinations:

×4 objective: ×40 total (scanning)
×10 objective: ×100 total (low power)
×40 objective: ×400 total (high power)
×100 objective: ×1000 total (oil immersion)

🎯 Resolution

Definition: The ability to distinguish between two separate points that are close together

Light microscopes: ~0.2 μm resolution limit
Human eye: ~100 μm resolution
Better resolution = clearer, sharper images
Limited by wavelength of light used

Important: High magnification is useless without good resolution - you get a bigger but blurry image!

This diagram covers Magnification and Resolution within Microscopy for GCSE Biology. Light and electron microscopes, magnification and resolution calculations, specimen preparation, staining techniques, and practical microscopy skills It is section 5 of 20 in this topic. Focus on the labels, the relationships between parts, and the explanation that turns the diagram into an exam-ready answer.

Practice questions for Microscopy

What is magnification?

A. The ability to distinguish between two separate points
B. How many times larger an image appears compared to the actual object
C. The brightness of an image under a microscope
D. The wavelength of light used in microscopy

1 markfoundation

Explain why specimens are stained before viewing under a light microscope.

3 marksstandard

Quick recall flashcards

What is resolution?

Resolution is the ability to distinguish between two separate points that are close together. It determines how clear and detailed an image is.

What is magnification?

Magnification is how many times larger an image appears compared to the actual object. It tells us how much bigger something looks through a microscope.

Magnification and Resolution