Size of Specimens

Understanding the size of specimens is crucial in biology, especially when studying tiny cells and microorganisms. Since these specimens are often too small to see with the naked eye, we rely on magnification and measurements to observe and analyze them.

 

Magnification Formula

Magnification helps us determine how much larger an image is compared to the actual size of the specimen. We use the formula:$$\text{Magnification}  = \text{Image Size} \div \text{Actual Size}$$

Key Terms:

1. Image Size: The size of the specimen in the magnified image (measured in mm or cm).

2. Actual Size: The real-life size of the specimen (measured in mm or $\mu m$).

 

 

Converting Units: Millimetres (mm) to Micrometres ($\mu m$)

Since cells are often measured in micrometres, it’s important to know how to convert between these units:

1 millimetre (mm) = 1000 micrometres ($\mu m$)

Example Conversion

Convert 2 mm to $\mu m$

Convert 500 to mm: