There are numerous best compound microscopes that consist of a complicated assembly having various parts. The body tube is one of the less functional parts but plays a critical role in the structure of the microscope. Without a body tube, the microscope might not have the same shape or form as it does. But what does the body tube do on a microscope?
Keep reading to learn what a body tube is and what it does on a microscope.
What is a Body Tube?
The body tube is a structure connecting different microscope lenses, such as the eyepiece and the objective lens. It is typically not too long as the eyepiece and objectives are not too far from each other. The body tube in most microscopes is made of plastic. Some microscopes are also made of metal, so the make of the body tube may also vary.
Function of Body Tube on a Microscope
The fundamental function of the body tube on all microscope kinds is to connect the eyepieces to the objective lenses. The upper side of the body tube contains the eyepiece, while the lower side has the turret or revolving nosepiece to hold the lenses together. The objective lenses are mounted on the turret, which enables you to switch objective lenses.
The base of the body tube contains a prism that bends the light entering through the eyepiece to pass it through the inclined tube and reach the objective lenses.
The Bottom Line
The body tube may not apparently seem as important as lenses, light sources, stage, or condensers, but it plays a critical role in observing specimens. The body tube is a mechanical part that connects the eyepiece to the objectives that are easily switched. The light will not be able to reach from the eyepiece to the objective lenses without a body tube. The body tube may be made of plastic, metal, or any other material per the construction of the microscope. It also contains a prism at the base that bends the light from the eyepiece to pass through the tube.
FAQs
What is the description of body tube?
The body tube is a hollow tube that connects the eyepieces to the objective lenses. It also contains a prism that bends the light to allow it to pass through the tube.
Where is the body tube located on a microscope?
The body tube connects to the arm of the microscope and the revolving nosepiece on the lower side. Meanwhile, the upper side of the body tube has an eyepiece.
What supports the body tube and it is?
The body tube is supported by the arm, which keeps it in shape. The arm also acts as a handle to carry the microscope when needed.
What are the supporting parts of microscope?
The arm, nosepiece, and base of the microscope are known as the supporting parts. The arm supports the microscope and attaches it to the base, which holds the overall structure of the light or compound microscope. The nosepiece supports the objective lenses.
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