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Category Archives for Optics

What Does Hair Look Like Under a Microscope? Facts & FAQs

scientist chechk DNA from hair

Hair is essentially a protein filament and grows from the follicles that are located in the skin’s dermis. But did you know that all the mammals presently listed on this planet have or have had hair at some point in their lives? And yes, that includes dolphins and whales too. Here’s a second fact that […]

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How Does an Infrared Sensor Work? Types, Uses, & FAQs

an infrared sensor

Today, the application of IR technology is no longer breaking news. We’ve used it to better our everyday lives at home, and even to make work a little bit easier. Take the TV, for example. In the 60s and 70s, you had to stand up from where you were seated and go flip some buttons […]

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What Do Cells Look Like Under a Microscope? Types, Parts, & FAQ

Close up slide under a fluorescent microscope

Cells represent the main structures of living organisms—they carry essential functions, provide structure for bodies, and absorb nutrients from food. They are the smallest units that can live on their own. Because of their size, you can’t see cells with the naked eye, so you’ll need to use a microscope. This article will provide in-depth […]

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What Is Phase Contrast Microscopy Used For? Pros, Cons & FAQs

Inverted phase contrast light microscope

Phase contrast microscopy is a powerful tool for the characterization of materials at the nanoscale. In this technique, a focused beam of electrons is scanned across a sample to produce a high-resolution image of the surface. It can be used to study various materials, including semiconductors, metals, and insulators. Plus, it has many advantages over […]

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Can Humans See Ultraviolet Light? The Surprising Answer!

Woman shielding eyes looking at sun with flushed cheeks

Your first association with ultraviolet (UV) light is undoubtedly its effects on your skin. Those are certainly visible when you get a sunburn. However, you may wonder if humans can see wavelengths of this spectrum. The short answer is no, although there is evidence that some people can. Suffice to say that humans are unique […]

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What Do Germs & Bacteria Look Like Under a Microscope? Facts & Tips

Oral bacteria

Although many people don’t realize this, we come in contact with germs and bacteria every day. We live in a world filled with germs, but it can be hard to understand that if you’ve never seen a germ or bacteria. That’s where microscopes come in handy, as they allow you to observe germs and bacteria […]

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Rangefinder vs. SLR: Differences, Overview, Pros & Cons

Range Finder VS SLR

Over the decades, the camera has evolved through many different mechanics and shapes. Now, the rangefinder and SLR remain two of the most popular styles. Of course, both cameras have pros and cons, but the main difference between the rangefinder and SLR is how the light rays pass through the sensor and to the viewfinder. […]

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14 Types of Black Birds in Wisconsin (with Pictures)

American Crow eating

There are “blackbirds,” and then there are “black birds.” The former is a family of 20+ North American birds.1 The latter simply refers to any bird that is black. Learn more about both types of birds, including where you can spot them in Wisconsin. The 14 Types of Birds That Belong to the Blackbird Family […]

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What Is Satellite Imaging? How Does It Work?

satellite near earth

Satellite imaging, also referred to as remote sensing, is a technique primarily applied to advanced surveying and data analysis. It’s different from the aerial photography techniques that we’re used to in the sense that it utilizes airborne sensors to collect, process, and document structural or environmental information in an accurate and more timely manner. Satellite […]

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How Do CO2 Lasers Work? What to Know!

doctor holding CO2 laser hand piece

If you’ve been dabbling in skin care or surgical studies, you might have come across carbon dioxide lasers and wondered what they do. What are they used for? How do they work? Are there different types of CO2 lasers? To answer these questions, we’ve made a comprehensive guide to show you all about these tools […]

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