Virtual Labs: Using a Microscope

Prepare a slide and adjust magnification on an oil immersion microscope to examine a Gram-stained sample and identify microbes hiding within.

The Virtual Labs series of interactive science modules help train high school and college students in basic laboratory techniques.

Using a microscope is one of the basic skills of laboratory work. Learn how to choose the correct lens, adjust lighting and magnification, and prepare a slide for viewing. Lab technicians use microscopes for many tasks, including checking what kinds of microbes are present in a sample. Using Gram staining and a microscope, you can differentiate beneficial bacteria from dangerous bacteria in food samples. In this module, enter the virtual lab of a dairy processing plant to analyze yoghurt samples and test for Salmonella and E. coli. Virtual Labs – Using the Microscope familiarizes the user with food science lab equipment and teaches standard techniques for this  procedure. The interactive guides the user through theory and practice of using the microscope, so that they will have familiarity with the equipment and procedures when encountered in a real lab.

This work was supported by USDA CSREES and USDA National Institute of Food and Agriculture under two Higher Education Challenge Grant projects: 2008-38411-19055 and 2011-38411-30625. © 2008-2016 NMSU Board of Regents. Collaborating universities South Dakota State University, North Dakota State University and New Mexico State University are all equal opportunity/affirmative action employers and educators.