Common tools of the Biologist

Gel Electrophoresis

Lab procedure that uses an electrical current to separate DNA and RNA fragments based on  their size. Smaller fragments move at a faster pace across the gel than larger ones.

Centrifuge

Used to separate a liquid mixture by density of the substances inside
This is an image of blood before and after it has been run through a centrifuge, the larger more dense cells have gone to the bottom and  the less dense plasma is at the top

Paper Chromatography

A procedure used to separate colored chemicals or pigments within a mixture. The colored liquid is added to chromatography paper and the pigments migrate at different speeds across the paper.

Microscope

This is a picture of a Compound Light Microscope which is the one we will be using in class this year. A compound light microscope uses two lenses to magnify the image. This can be used to magnify between 40 and 500 times. 
Picture
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Virtual Microscope activity
The Video above can be used to fill in your notes or just used to review the microscope and how it is used.

Electron Microscope

Most powerful microscope

Sample Images from electron microscope

Adding liquid to a slide

The proper way to add a liquid to a slide is to place a drop or two of the liquid or stain to one side and place a paper towel on the opposite side. This will draw the liquid across the slide without having to lift up the coverslip.