Biology - Calculating Resolving Power of Microscope?

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SUMMARY

The resolving power (RP) of a microscope is calculated using the formula RP = wavelength / (2 x NA), where NA is the numerical aperture of the objective lens. In this discussion, the average wavelength of visible light is specified as 0.55 µm. The numerical aperture for an oil immersion lens is typically around 1.3. Therefore, the resolving power can be calculated as RP = (0.55 µm x 0.000001 meters) / (2 x 1.3), leading to a definitive understanding of how to compute the resolving power based on these parameters.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of optical microscopy principles
  • Familiarity with numerical aperture (NA) concepts
  • Knowledge of wavelength measurements in micrometers (µm)
  • Basic algebra for solving equations
NEXT STEPS
  • Research the relationship between numerical aperture and lens design
  • Explore the impact of different wavelengths on resolving power
  • Learn about oil immersion techniques in microscopy
  • Investigate advanced microscopy techniques that enhance resolving power
USEFUL FOR

Students in biology or microscopy courses, educators teaching optical microscopy, and researchers needing to calculate resolving power for microscopy applications.

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Biology -- Calculating Resolving Power of Microscope??

Homework Statement


The question is this:

Resolving power is a function of the wavelength of light used and the numerical aperature of the objective lens. Given that RP= wavelength / (2 x NA), calculate the resolving power of the microscope when using oil immersion lens. Visible light has an average wavelength of 0.55 um ( 1 um = 0.000001 meters)

:/ Help? I think I got it but I'm not sure what to use for NA.


Homework Equations




RP= wavelength / (2 x NA)

The Attempt at a Solution



RP= (0.55 um x 0.000001 meters) / (2 x 1.3 )

I found that 1.3 value online. I don't even understand how to get that value...
 
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The numerical aperture depends on the focal length of the objective (and it's design)
Were you given the magnification?
 

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