mikroskopu

A microscope is an optical instrument used to magnify small objects beyond the resolving power of the naked eye. In Polish, mikroskopu is the genitive form of mikroskop, the word for microscope.

Historically, microscopes emerged in the early modern period, with contributions from pioneers such as Anton van Leeuwenhoek and Robert Hooke. Today, microscopes are grouped into several families. Light microscopes use visible light and lenses to enlarge specimens, while electron microscopes use electron beams to achieve much higher resolution. Scanning probe techniques, such as atomic force microscopy, measure surface properties directly. Modern light microscopy also includes specialized methods like fluorescence, phase contrast, and confocal imaging, which enhance contrast or enable three‑dimensional views.

Key components of a typical light microscope include an objective lens set near the specimen, an eyepiece for viewing, a stage to hold the slide, a condenser to concentrate light, and a light source. Magnification arises from the objective and eyepiece, but resolving power depends on the numerical aperture of the optics and the wavelength of light. Electron microscopes replace lenses with electromagnetic lenses and operate in a vacuum, enabling sub‑nanometer resolution but requiring more complex sample preparation.

Applications span biology, medicine, materials science, and forensic analysis. Limitations of light microscopes include restricted resolution and potential artifacts from staining or illumination. Advanced techniques such as confocal microscopy, super‑resolution methods (for example, STED, PALM, STORM), and atomic force microscopy expand capabilities for detailed imaging and analysis.