The steps involved in observing a slide under a microscope are given below. They are not in proper sequence. I. Focus the object under high power of the microscope. II. Place the slide on the stage of the microscope. III. Arrange the mirror to reflect maximum light to the slide. IV. Focus the object under low power of the microscope. The proper sequence of steps is
The steps involved in observing a slide under a microscope are given below. They are not in proper sequence. I. Focus the object under high power of the microscope. II. Place the slide on the stage of the microscope. III. Arrange the mirror to reflect maximum light to the slide. IV. Focus the object under low power of the microscope. The proper sequence of steps is
Options
Official answer
The correct sequence of steps to observe a slide under a microscope is II, III, IV, I (Option A).
Marking scheme
- 1.1 mark for identifying the correct sequence: II, III, IV, I (Option A).
Hint
Always place the slide and adjust the light before attempting to focus. Always start focusing with the low-power objective lens before switching to high power.
Quick oral answer
We always focus under low power first because it has a larger field of view and greater depth of focus, making it much easier to locate and center the specimen before magnifying it further under high power.
Common mistakes
- 1.Students often try to focus under high power directly, which can crack the coverslip or scratch the objective lens.
- 2.Forgetting to adjust the mirror/light source before focusing, leading to a dark and invisible field of view.
Analysis and explanation
To observe a biological specimen (such as Amoeba or Yeast) under a compound microscope, the following systematic procedure must be followed:
- Step II (Place the slide on the stage): The prepared slide is placed on the mechanical stage and secured with stage clips so that the specimen is positioned directly over the light aperture.
- Step III (Adjust the mirror): The reflecting mirror (or built-in light source) and condenser are adjusted to direct maximum light through the diaphragm and illuminate the specimen uniformly.
- Step IV (Focus under low power): The low-power objective lens (usually ) is rotated into position. Using the coarse adjustment knob, the stage is moved to bring the specimen into rough focus. Low power provides a wider field of view, making it easier to locate the specimen.
- Step I (Focus under high power): Once the specimen is centered and clear, the high-power objective lens (usually ) is clicked into place. The fine adjustment knob is then used to sharpen the focus and observe minute cellular details.
Why other options are incorrect:
- Option B (I, II, III, IV): Incorrect because it attempts to focus under high power first, which can damage the slide or lens and makes locating the specimen extremely difficult.
- Option C (IV, III, II, I): Incorrect because it places focusing under low power before the slide is even placed on the stage.
- Option D (III, I, II, IV): Incorrect because it attempts to focus under high power before placing the slide on the stage.
Interesting facts
The low-power objective lens has a larger working distance (the gap between the lens and the slide), which prevents accidental contact and damage while focusing.
Question details
Q37 of 41 questions
- Board
- CBSE
- Class
- Class 10
- Subject
- Science
- Year
- 2011
- Section
- Section B
- Marks
- 1
- Type
- MCQ
- Chapter
- How do Organisms Reproduce?
- Topic
- Modes of Reproduction Used by Single Organisms
- Bloom's level
- Apply
- Syllabus topic
- Asexual reproduction: fission, fragmentation, regeneration, budding, vegetative propagation, spore formation; practical skills in microscopy
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Frequently asked questions
How many marks does this question carry in CBSE Class 10 Science 2011?
This question carries 1 mark in the CBSE Class 10 Science 2011 examination.
Which chapter does this question come from in Science?
This question is from the chapter "How do Organisms Reproduce?" in the CBSE Class 10 Science syllabus.
What topic does this question cover in Science?
This question covers the topic "Modes of Reproduction Used by Single Organisms" from CBSE Class 10 Science.
What type of question is this in the CBSE Class 10 Science 2011 paper?
This is a MCQ question from Section B in the CBSE Class 10 Science 2011 paper.