The compound microscope parts and functions are important to learn about if you want to be able to truly understand how a microscope works. Microscopes have been used by all generations for centuries all around the world. The microscope has evolved and changed throughout time, however, the basic workings of a microscope and functions of each compound part are very similar. A microscope will function correctly only if each individual part is working properly. If one part stops working to its optimum level, it will likely harm the effectiveness of the overall microscope. The major parts of the microscope include the tube, lenses, illuminator, arm, adjustment knobs, and the stage.

There are two different kinds of lenses on the microscope. One of these is the eyepiece lens otherwise known as the ocular lens. This is located at the top of the microscope and is what the user looks through. The second lens is called the objective lens and is the one the enables the microscope’s use of magnification. This varies in strength depending on the type of lens used. The adjustment knobs are on all types of microscopes and used to focus the lenses. There are larger and smaller ones that are used to bring the object into clear focus. The illuminator is the part that lights up the object or specimen in question to see. The stage is the area in which the object to be examined is placed. The slides are then held by clamps.

These compound microscope parts are virtually the same on all different types of microscopes and have been for ages. There is some minor variation among the different types, yet the basic principles of the functions and parts are all the same. Knowing these functions will help you to more accurately use one as well as locate a good one.