What is Microscope Resolution?
The resolution of a microscope is the ability to clearly determine two separate points, or objects, as singular, distinguished entities. If closer together than appropriate for your resolution, the objects or points will blur together, making it impossible to differentiate. Adjust the resolution with the resolving power of the lens of the microscope. Resolution is not magnification, which is a microscope’s ability to increase size–not clarity. Magnification also utilizes lenses, but if the resolving power is poor, increasing magnification will only magnify a blurry specimen. Choosing Microscope Resolution Though some microscopic scientists recommend 0.2 microns=200 nm as the best resolution for an optical microscope, it is useful to have some simple guidelines for selecting resolution. Consider whether the resolution of the microscope could damage the subject. If the resolution is very high, for example, the lens will require oil or other liquids that can harm ill-prepared slides or s
