One of the most important tools for studying microorganisms is the light microscopes, which

uses visible light for observing objects. These instruments can magnify images approximately
1000x (1000-fold), making it relatively easy to observe cell size, shape, and motility. The
electron microscope, introduced in 1931, can magnify images in excessof 100.000 x, revealing
many fine details of cell structure. A major advancement came in the 1980s with the
development of the atomic force microscope, which allows scientists to produce images of
individual atoms on a surface.

Principles of Light Microscopy: The Bright-Field Microscope

In light microscopy, light passes through a specimen and then through a series of magnifying
lenses. The most common type of light microscope is the bright field microscope, which evenly
illuminates the field of view. Characteristics of this and other microscopes are summarized in
table 3.1

Light Microscopes That Increase Contrast

Special light microscopes that increase the contrast between microorganisms and their
surroundings overcome some of the difficulties of observing unstained cells. They are invaluable
when examining characteristics of living organisms, the specimen is prepared as a wet mount-a
drop of liquid on which a coverslip has been placed.

The dark field microscope

Cell viewed through a dark field microscope stand out as bright objects against a dark
background. The microscope works in the same way that a beam of light shining into a dark
room makes dust visible. For dark field microscopy, a special mechanism directs light toward the
specimen at an angle, so that only light scattered by the specimen enters the objective lens. A
simple dark field stop can be attached to temporarily convert it to a dark field microscope.

Dark field microscope is used to see Treponema Pallidum, which causes syphilis; bright field
microscopy will not work because the cells are thin and stain poorly.