METHOD FOR INCREASING THE RESOLVING POWER OF AN OPTICAL MICROSCOPE

Purpose. Increasing the resolution and magnification of the optical microscope to expand the possibilities of observation and research in various fields of science and technology. Research methods. Theoretical, experimental. Results. A comparative analysis of the human eye as an optical system and the optical system of a microscope was carried out. It was found that these systems have a similar nature, namely, a separate image of two closely located objects. If we consider the human eye as a light-sensitive matrix, then to determine the resolution of the eye, it is necessary to use the ratio of the average value of the number of light-sensitive elements (rods and cones) that fall on the retina to the area of the retina itself (for the human eye, it is 0.1...0.2 mm). For an optical microscope, it is necessary to separate the concepts of “resolution” and “magnification”. We also mentioned the physical basis of the resolution of optical microscopes. It was shown that for a dry lens the resolution limit for λ = 555 nm is 0.3 μm. One of the ways to increase the resolution is the use of immersion fluids. However, in certain studies its use is inappropriate or impossible. If instead of conventional illuminators (maximum intensity at λ = 555 nm) you use ultraviolet ones (λ = 380…410 nm), then the resolution can be increased several times, and the increase is up to 2000. The disadvantage of using UV illuminators is that it is necessary to use a light filter with direct observation or a monitor with an indirect method to avoid negative effects on the observer’s vision. Scientific novelty. The increased resolution and magnification of the optical microscope when using coherent light sources instead of immersion fluids provides more detailed scientific information and facilitates its processing. Practical value. Using the results of our research allows you to get a more informative image when using coherent light sources.