A stereo microscope and a compound microscope are both types of microscopes that are used to examine specimens, but they differ in several key ways:
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Magnification: A stereo microscope has a lower magnification range (10x to 50x) than a compound microscope, which typically has a magnification range of 40x to 1000x or more.
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Objective lenses: A compound microscope has multiple objective lenses that are mounted on a rotating turret, while a stereo microscope typically has a single objective lens that is not interchangeable.
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Illumination: A compound microscope uses transmitted light, which is directed through the specimen, while a stereo microscope typically uses reflected light (ex: ring light), which is directed onto the specimen.
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Depth of field: A stereo microscope has a larger depth of field, which means that objects at different distances from the objective lens are in focus at the same time. A compound microscope has a smaller depth of field, so objects at different distances from the objective lens may not be in focus at the same time.
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Use: A stereo microscope is typically used for examining larger specimens or objects, such as insects, plants, rocks, and small mechanical parts, that do not require high magnification. A compound microscope is used for examining smaller specimens, such as cells or tissues, that require higher magnification.
In summary, a stereo microscope is used for examining larger specimens at lower magnification, while a compound microscope is used for examining smaller specimens at higher magnification.