Key learning points

1. A light microscope can be used to observe plant root hair cells.
2. The parts of a light microscope and their functions.
3. The sequence of steps for setting up a light microscope to observe cells including changing the magnification and focus.
4. Observations from a light microscope can be recorded in a labelled scientific line drawing.
5. Total magnification = magnification of the eyepiece lens × magnification of the objective lens

Keywords

• Light microscope - an instrument that uses visible light and lenses to magnify a viewed specimen

• Lens - a glass or plastic disc that refracts light to increase magnification

• Focus - focus means to make an image sharper and clearer

• Magnification - the number of times greater in size the viewed object is compared to its actual size

• Root hair cell - a specialised plant cell found in the roots that absorb water and nutrients into the plant

Common misconception