1. Light Microscopy:
- Uses visible light to illuminate specimens.
- Brightfield microscopy: Basic technique where light passes through the specimen, and the image is viewed directly without staining.
- Darkfield microscopy: Specialized illumination technique that enhances contrast by blocking direct light and illuminating the specimen from the sides.
2. Fluorescence Microscopy:
- Utilizes fluorescent dyes or stains that emit light when exposed to specific wavelengths.
- Requires a fluorescence microscope equipped with specialized filters and a light source that emits the appropriate wavelength.
- Allows visualization of specific structures or molecules within cells.
3. Phase-Contrast Microscopy:
- Uses phase shifts in light waves to create contrast between different parts of the specimen.
- Enhances the visibility of transparent or colorless objects without staining.
4. Differential Interference Contrast (DIC):
- Another technique that uses light waves to create contrast by highlighting differences in the refractive index of different cellular structures.
5. Electron Microscopy:
- Uses beams of electrons instead of light to achieve much higher magnifications and resolution.
- Transmission Electron Microscopy (TEM): Electrons pass through the specimen, producing detailed internal structures.
- Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM): Electrons scan the surface of the specimen, creating 3D images.
6. Scanning Probe Microscopy:
- Includes techniques such as Atomic Force Microscopy (AFM) and Scanning Tunneling Microscopy (STM).
- Uses a sharp probe to scan the surface of a specimen, creating a 3D image at the atomic level.
These are some basic techniques in microscopy, each with its own advantages and applications. The choice of technique depends on the specific research question and the desired level of detail and information.