Microscope magnification is determined by multiplying the magnifying power of the objective lens by the magnifying power of the eyepiece lens. For example, an objective lens with a magnification of 40x combined with an eyepiece lens magnifying 10x yields a total magnification of 400x. This calculation provides the degree to which a specimen appears larger than its actual size.
Accurate magnification determination is fundamental in microscopy. It enables precise measurement and observation of microscopic structures, crucial for fields like biology, medicine, and materials science. The ability to calculate magnification allows researchers to document and compare findings accurately, contributing to verifiable scientific progress.