Water droplet lens microscope and microphotographs

Abstract

A simple homemade microscope has been devised using a single water droplet lens, which proved to be practical for classroom use in school. In order to prevent evaporation of water, the water droplet lens was encapsulated in a plastic vessel together with wetted paper. By changing the amount of water in a metal ring (4.5 mm diameter with thickness 0.6 mm) attached to the bottom of the plastic vessel, the magnification could be varied from around ×6 to ×30. It was also demonstrated that microphotographs could be taken readily using an ordinary compact camera. This microscope is expected to make a significant contribution to science education in developing countries.