Lectures on general optics covering the following topics: Electromagnetic radiation, resolution ability, magnification, refractive index, diffraction, phase shifting, interference. Special optics: The general ray paths in LM, CLSM, SEM and TEM, various depiction methods and optical methods for increasing the contrast in LM, SEM, CLSM and TEM. Sample treatment: general methods in LM, SEM, CLSM and TEM (fixation methods, dehydration, castings, drying, cryomethods) general and special colouration methods. Demonstrations, teaching and exercises give a thorough introduction to the use of the microscopes and their various depiction techniques. Exercises where the students are to learn to make critical evaluations of the most appropriate methods to apply based on the problem and the nature of the sample.

Students will acquire theoretical and practical knowledge in optics, sample treatment and image formation to be able to: 1) explain central optical terms. 2) describe ray paths and image formation in various microscope types. 3) make rational choices concerning sample treatment and imaging methods based on sample type and the problem to be solved. 4) evaluate and interpret micrographs. Students should be able to: A) Diagnose, adjust and use the following microscopes: 1) Light microscopes - LM, with various types of optics (bright fields, dark fields, polarisation and fluorescence). 2) Confocal Laser Scanning Microscope - CLSM. 3) Scanning Electron Microscope - SEM, in various imaging modes (SEI and BEI) and for element determination (X-ray analysis). 4) Transmission electron Microscopy - TEM. B using the following equipment for sample treatment: 1) Ultramicrotrome for cutting in LM and TEM. 2) Cryostate for cutting in LM and SEM. 3) Coating-units (Sputter coater) in SEM. 4) Critical point drying (CPD) in SEM. C) Using a selection of methods in connection with sample treatment, colouring/marking and simple image treatment (will vary somewhat from one year to the next).

Lectures. Web-based independent learning. Practical teaching, demonstrations and laboratory exercises.

Compendium and selected websites

Exercises and demonstrations.

Written journal, 1/3 of the total grade. Oral exam, 2/3 of the total grade. The journal must be approved before the student are allowed to take the exam.

300 hours.

Special requirements in Science

Lectures: 10-12 hours per week. Demonstrations: 2-3 hours per week. Training: 10-12 hours per week Exercises: 10-15 hours per week. Additional lectures: Internet-based individual study and journals. Practical work ends with a written exercise/journal.

External examiner