How does a microscope work?

The microscope we most often see is called a light microscope. It uses a light to help us look at the tiny details of the thing we are investigating (our sample). We can use a light microscope to study cells, parasites and some bacteria. Look at the image of a microscope, and click on each part to find out how it helps us to investigate our sample.

Now you know how a light microscope works, return to the microscopes homepage, have a look at our Microworld ID, or learn about electron microscopes!