A Level Biology Practice Exam

What is the primary function of a compound light microscope?

1. A light microscope that uses two lenses to magnify an object

2. A device used to magnify objects using only one lens

3. A type of microscope that does not require light

4. A microscope that only works with fluorescent samples

The correct answer is: A light microscope that uses two lenses to magnify an object

The primary function of a compound light microscope is indeed the use of multiple lenses to magnify an object. This type of microscope typically employs two or more lenses, which work together to amplify the image of a specimen placed on the stage. The first lens is the objective lens, which gathers light from the specimen and creates a magnified image. The second lens, known as the eyepiece or ocular lens, further magnifies this image for the viewer. This dual-lens system allows for higher levels of magnification compared to a simple microscope that uses only one lens. In addition to magnification, a compound light microscope also enables better resolution and clarity of the image, making it particularly useful for examining small specimens such as cells or microorganisms. The compound light microscope relies on visible light, which distinguishes it from other types of microscopy that may employ different methods of illumination.