In the formula $NA = n \sin \theta$, what does '$n$' represent?
Show answer and explanation
Correct answer: The refractive index of the medium between the lens and the specimen
The '$n$' represents the refractive index of the medium (air, water, or oil) through which light passes. Increasing this value directly increases the Numerical Aperture and improves resolution.
Keep practicing
More Microscopy Resolution questions
- A typical Transmission Electron Microscope (TEM) can achieve a resolution of approximately:
- Which of the following would DECREASE the resolution of a histological image?
- The 'angular aperture' ($\theta$) in the calculation of NA refers to:
- Which statement about resolution is true regarding the comparison of SEM and TEM?
- The Airy disk is a phenomenon related to:
- Contrast and resolution are often in a trade-off. Which action increases contrast but potentially reduces resolution?