Simple microscope and Compound microscope are the two different microscopes having different properties in terms of use. So in this article, we will discuss Simple microscope vs Compound microscope.
Microscopes are the instruments used to magnify the images of a small object. There are many different kinds of microscopes with different uses and properties used for different purposes. Microscopes are used in laboratories and academic experiments. To use microscopes we must know about them.
A simple microscope is an instrument that uses a single optical lens for the magnification of an object. A compound microscope is an instrument that uses two lenses for magnification of images which include one objective lens and an eyepiece. A simple microscope includes a hand lens, reading glasses, etc. while a compound microscope is a laboratory instrument.
Here, we will learn how Simple microscope differs from Compound microscope in their properties and applications.
Simple microscope vs Compound microscope
| Characteristics | Compound microscope | Simple microscope |
|---|---|---|
| Lenses (in number) | 3-5 magnifying lenses | One lens |
| Mirrors | One side of mirror is concave while other is plain | Both side concave reflecting lenses |
| Level of magnification | High-level | Only one level |
| Magnification power | Up to 2000x | Up to 300x |
| Invention | Invented by Hans and Zacharias Janssen in 1590. | Invented by Antony van Leeuwanhoek in 1670. |
| Lens | Only 1 biconvex lens with short focal length | One objective lens and one eyepiece. |
| Condenser lens | Present | Absent |
| Light source | Illuminator | Natural |
| Use | Used in advanced ways to study about the specimens in detail | Used in simple ways such as enlarging images while reading |
| Magnification adjustment | Possible | Not possible |
| Use of coarse, knobs | Present for focusing | Absent |
| Structure | Small stand with one hollow cylindrical attached to the base for holding the microscope. | Curved arm is used to hold the microscope |
Conclusion
The difference between a Simple microscope vs compound microscope explains how the properties of a simple microscope vary with the compound microscope. Compound microscope where is used in laboratories for examination of microscopic specimens for their detailed study, Simple microscope is used for basic magnification of objects in our everyday life.
