The Microscope and How to Use It

by Georg Stehli

In nontechnical language and with 199 photographs and drawings, the author clearly explains how a microscope works and what kind to use; preparation and examination of specimens, and much more.

Genres: Reference

225 pages, Kindle Edition

First published June 1, 1970

Reviews

[Dennis Robbins · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Microscope forever altered the scope of human knowledge. It revealed a vast universe of tiny living things and allowed for the study of the hidden structures of organisms. This book is written for the microscope hobbyist but anyone interested in exploring the micro-cosmos should have it as a guide. There is detailed information on the use of the microscope: calculating magnification, preparing slides, using chemical dyes and fixatives, collecting samples, equipment care and maintenance, etc. For some readers there maybe too much detail or the writing might be less engaging than what they are accustomed; the book is a 1960 English edition, fortunately saved for posterity by Dover Books. There is some unexpected advice such as in preparing tissues samples, “To kill a frog quickly and without pain, grasp it by the hind legs and slam its head against the edge of the table.” So the book may not be for everyone. But I think any teacher who uses microscopy in a life sciences classroom will find this book a useful resource and full of potential lessons. I also recommend it for anyone who would wish to follow in the footsteps of Antonie van Leeuwenhoek, Robert Hooke and Louis Pasteur.