Basic Optical Microscopy: Techniques and Applications

This lecture covers the basics of optical microscopy, including different modes of observation, the use of objective diaphragms, and techniques like bright-field, phase contrast, and dark-field microscopy. It explains the principles behind phase contrast, the Argand diagram, and the limitations of bright-field microscopy. The instructor discusses the importance of aligning phase plates and annuluses for accurate imaging and the challenges posed by artifacts in microscopy.