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What Is Dissection Microscope?

Dissecting microscopes allow 3-dimensional specimens, such as small insects, to be observed under a low magnification. They also are used in forensic science to compare the striation marks on bullets to see if they are fired from the same gun.

  1. History

    • The dissecting microscope was developed in the field of forensic science in the 1920s to assist with the analysis of fired bullets and cartridge cases.

    Description

    • A dissecting microscope allows large objects or specimens to be observed and compared under low magnification, and it can be used as a tool in dissections.

    Additional names

    • A dissecting microscope also can be called a stereo microscope or comparison microscope.

    Considerations

    • In addition to the dissecting microscope, a light source called an illuminator is needed to direct light onto the specimen being studied.

    Benefits

    • A dissecting microscope allows specimens that considered to too largefor a compound microscope to be studied.

    Disadvantages

    • A dissecting microscope does not permit a specimen to be magnified as much as a compound microscope.

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