What is a dissecting microscope?

Dissecting microscopes, also known as stereo microscopes, are scientific instruments used to obtain three-dimensional images of obtained specimens. The microscope trains two different lenses on the specimen in order to obtain the image.

Dissecting microscopes have advantages and disadvantages. They are the only microscopes that can produce three-dimensional images and have a superior depth of field compared to typical compound microscopes. Their three-dimensional images can be useful in determining the exact location and function of objects. However, they have a small magnification. This prevents the user from seeing highly detailed images, but allows larger portions of the object to be viewed at the same time.