microscope magnification

Let us learn about microscope magnification

The linear magnification m, for the image formed at near point D, by a simple microscope can be obtained by using the relation

m= v/u = v(1/v - 1/u) =(1 – v/f)

Now according to our sign convention, v is negative, and equal to the magnitude of D. Thus, the magnification is

m = (1 + D/f)

Note that

m = h’/h

Where h is the size of the object and h’ is the size of the image. This is also ratio of the angle subtended by the image to that subtended by the object, if placed at D for comfortable viewing. The magnification m if the image is at infinity is

m = D/f

This is one less than the magnification when the image is at the near point. But viewing is more comfortable and the difference in magnification is usually small this is why the image is generally assumed to be at infinity.

In our next blog we shall learn about letter of support example I hope the above explanation was useful.Keep reading and leave your