Write any two differences between a simple microscope and a compound microscope
The Correct Answer and Explanation is:
Correct Answer:
- A simple microscope uses a single lens to magnify objects, whereas a compound microscope uses two or more lenses (an objective lens and an eyepiece lens) to achieve higher magnification.
- A simple microscope generally provides low magnification (up to around 10x–20x), while a compound microscope can provide much higher magnification, often ranging from 40x to 1000x or more.
Textbook-Style Explanation (300 words):
A microscope is an optical instrument used to magnify and observe small objects that cannot be seen clearly with the naked eye. There are two main types of light microscopes: the simple microscope and the compound microscope. Though both are used for magnifying small specimens, they differ in construction, magnification power, and application.
A simple microscope consists of only a single convex lens. It works on the principle of magnifying an object when it is placed within the focal length of the lens. This type of microscope is similar to a magnifying glass and is often used for basic applications like reading small print, examining stamps, or observing insect parts. Since it uses just one lens, the magnification is relatively low—typically up to 10x or 20x. The image formed by a simple microscope is virtual, erect, and magnified.
In contrast, a compound microscope uses a combination of two sets of lenses: the objective lens and the eyepiece (or ocular) lens. The object is placed on the stage and illuminated, usually from below, and the objective lens produces a real, inverted, and magnified image. This image is further magnified by the eyepiece to produce a greatly enlarged virtual image. Due to this dual-lens system, compound microscopes offer significantly higher magnification and resolution. They are commonly used in laboratories, biology classes, and medical research to study cells, bacteria, and microscopic structures.
Thus, the key differences lie in their structure and magnification capabilities: a simple microscope is suitable for low-magnification tasks and uses one lens, while a compound microscope is ideal for high-magnification needs and uses multiple lenses.
