Question

Describe the evolution of the microscope and it's contributions to the story of cell biology.

Answer 1

In the 1500s, Zacharias Jensen invented the first microscpe. Robert Hooke used a microscope for observing dead cork cells. The result of his findings are published in his book Micrographia. Antony Von Leeuwenhoek, who was a draper by profession used a microscope for the first time to observe bacteria. He called them animalcules.

With he help of the microscope, it was possible to observe different cells and organisms. This lead to the establishment of the cell theory. Microscopic observations also helped in differentiating between eukaryotic and prokaryotic organisms. Microscopes also help in differentiating between different cell shapes. The discovery of cell cycle was also made possible through the use of microscope.