Ah..... I wanted answers. Instead I get told I have good questions <grin>. I guess its a start.
I called a microscope manufacturer last night. The fellow was very gentle with someone as unknowledgeable as me. He took the time to explain magnification, color spectrums, contrast and many other things that were probably over my head. I was trying to figure out how little I could spend for a basic microscope that would allow me to begin to see bacteria. I figured all I have to do is get myself some bacteria, check to see if they are alive in the microscope, add some CS and watch 'em die. At least it would be a start. I learned that most bacteria are pretty hard to see. Magnification of 400x or more can be required, and magnification is only one consideration. Just magnifying something is rarely enough to allow one to see it and distinguish its basic characteristics. A microscope good enough to begin doing the kind of work we're interested in is apparently going to cost at least $4,000. That's a bit steep for my budget. I asked if I could expect a good high school to have that kind of a microscope. Unlikely. Perhaps a university would have one, depending on the level of sophistication. So, I guess I need to see what local universities have a good microbiology program and good equipment. Seems like CS could be a great school project and worthy of an A grade to some student. Of course, with five kids, I don't have much time for taking microbiology classes and doing research. On the other hand, this topic is really getting my attention at the moment. Microbiology as an academic subject never interested me. As a practical solution to an immediate problem it seems like a wonderful discipline. I don't know where I'm going to go with this, but I have a few ideas. I'll keep you all informed as I take steps or make progress. Thanks to everyone else who is doing the same. Bob
Signed by : Robert Wells Signed on : 06/30/98 12:02:20 Certifier : North American Users Certifier - Flat
