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A 10x magnification lens is considered a moderate objective lens in bright-field microscopy. It is usually paired with lower magnifications, such as 2x, 4x, or 100x, as well as with higher magnifications, such as 40x and 100x. There are several types of microscope objective 10x lenses, all of which are appropriate for different applications.
In general, there are four main types of 10x objectives, each of which is classified according to the optical system of the lenses. These types are as follows: standard, semi-apochromat, and aplanatic, and the last one is apochromat mentioned. Microscope objective lenses differ not only in performance characteristics but also in price, as aplanatic/NA/ed plateformes are much more expensive than standard or aplanatic objectives.
Knowing this widely allows users to choose the appropriate 10X lens for their needs, thus avoiding costly purchases. Here is an overview of the different types of 10x objectives available in the market:
Standard objectives
Also called the dry 10X, this objective is a basic lens used for routine samples in laboratories. A standard lens is useful for biology work using a microscope and great for preliminary histological slides. This class of objectives is the least expensive and easy to integrate into a microscope's optical system.
Semicroma objectives
Also referred to as a semiautomatic objective or semiachromatic, this lens is used for greater precision work such as microbiological cultures. This lens is an intermediate version of objectives and available at affordable prices. It provides better performance than the standard level in areas such as chromatic and spherical abberation.
Aplanatic objectives
A standard objective is also referred to as an aplanatic. These are highly specialized lenses ideal for working with advanced microscopy techniques. They are widely used in histopathological and cytological examinations focusing on samples for living cells. An aplanatic lens corrects the spherical aberration better than regular lenses and is more expensive.
Apochromat objectives
Apochromate microscope objective 10x is the most specialized from the series. It corrects all forms of aberration, including chromatic and spherical. This lens is ideal for advanced studies that require a very sharp and clear contrast of the image like microbiological cultures. They are also the most expensive objectives on the market and due to their highly specialized lens type.
Microscope objective lenses, especially the 10X variety, are very sensitive optical instruments that require careful maintenance to perform well, last long, and remain in working condition. Here are the key specifications of a 10x microscope objective lens, along with some maintenance tips to keep it in good condition.
Microscope objective lenses are widely applied across diverse situations and in numerous fields. Below are some of the common scenarios in which the 10x objective lens is particularly used:
Biologists use the 10x objective to observe and analyze diverse biological samples, including cells, tissues, and microorganisms. This lens provides a wide-field view that allows the user to survey and identify preliminary structures before zooming in with higher magnification. This makes it important in tasks such as histology, microbiology, and botany.
Pathologists use the 10x lens to boost the speed and efficiency of their work in clinical laboratories. The lens serves in the preliminary assessment of tissue sections and other medical samples to identify disease patterns, cell abnormalities, and other significant morphological features. This objective supports pathologists in fast screening samples, after which they can perform focused studies with higher magnification objectives.
Schools and universities use the 10x objective in biology and health science classes so that students learn about and examine live specimens. Students use this lens to gain a broader understanding of basic cellular structures, tissue arrangement, and organism levels. The lens promotes learning through observation, which is a critical approach that enhances students' understanding of various biological concepts.
Scientists use a 10x microscope lens to inspect and analyze materials used in manufacturing, construction, and even metallurgy. It helps users to examine the microstructure of metals, crystals, and composites to evaluate material properties, detect defects, and assess quality. The objective supports early surface examination, which may reveal issues like corrosion or stress patterns that affect the material's future performance.
In forensic science, laboratory scientists and crime scene investigators use a 10x microscope objective to closely examine evidence collected at the scene of the crime. This lens is important for analyzing fibers, hair, gunshot residue, and other microscopic evidence. The objective helps create preliminary assessments that guide investigators in identifying or ruling out potential suspects or reconstructing criminal activities.
Veterinary technicians and veterinarians commonly use the 10x objective in animal health diagnostic laboratories. The lens helps in the examination of blood, fecal samples, and other biological fluids to identify parasites, bacteria, cell counts, and other significant indices. This objective enables preliminary screening that supports quick diagnosis and informs treatment decisions.
The choice of objectives mainly depends on the type and orient of work to be done under the microscope. A 10x lens is a moderate magnification lens often used with other lenses in the magnification range. There are several factors to keep in mind when choosing the right microscope objective 10x lens, as explained below:
Type of Work
Microscope objectives are available in different types, such as general, semi-apochromat, and aplanatic, and apochromat, which are the most specialized. These types encompass a standard lens usually used for routine samples and an aplanatic lens, which is availed for histological slides and ideal for users who need to focus on living cells. So, consider the type of work that will be done and choose an appropriate objective.
Specimen Size and Type
Microscope objectives are produced for all kinds of specimens, from the very smallest living cells to samples that are much bigger. For instance, a plan achromat or an aplanatic lens should be used if the materials to be examined are biological tissues or living cells, as these lenses have chromatic correction and spherical aberration. Specialized objectives will guarantee that the specimen is not distorted and produce the clearest possible view.
Compatibility
Not every scope can take any kind of objective. This is pertinent with the more advanced kinds, like the oil, electron, and phase contrast objectives, which need specific scopes to work rightly. When purchasing an objective, buyers should pay attention to their current microscope model and manufacturer to ensure compatibility.
Budget
Standard objectives are more expensive to make than the more specialized varieties, but at the same time, they tend to provide more enhanced and sharper imaging. While specialized objectives like apo and plan objectives are highly priced, they are ideal for work that needs a clear and more accurate focus. When selecting an objective, one must ensure affordability while also considering the quality of the end product.
Working Distance and Focus
Working distance refers to the distance between the objective lens and the specimen when an image is focused. For specific applications, such as working with thick samples or using coverslips, a longer working distance might be required. Pay consideration to these features when selecting.
A1: Yes, it is very important that objectives have a different thickness in cover glass to perform correctly. In most cases, this thickness is equal to 0.17mm. Any deviation from this value will cause incorrect focusing and, thus, a degraded image.
A2: No, not all objectives are made compatible with every microscope. Some objectives, especially ones that are oil-immersion, phase-contrast, or super, may require a certain sort of microscope to work correctly.
A3: First, only clean the lens with a microfiber cloth meant for lenses and a lens cleaner solution. Second, always place the cap on the objective when not in use. And third, store the objective in a case to avoid damage from dust, dirt, or impact.
A4: While specialized objectives are expensive, they are worth it in professional work. They correct chromatic and spherical aberration and provide a clear, high-quality image necessary for detailed work like cell imaging.
A5: To turn a 10x into an oil immersion one, one must replace the existing lens with an oil-immersion lens. This needs professional help as it involves opening the microscope and replacing parts internally, which is a complex process.
