Light microscopy is a technique that uses visible light and a system of lenses to magnify small objects, allowing scientists to observe details that are not visible to the naked eye. It is commonly used in biology to study cells, tissues, and microorganisms. The basic components include an objective lens, an eyepiece, and a light source, which illuminates the specimen. This method can achieve magnifications of up to 1,000 times, making it suitable for examining the structure of cells and their components. Stains and dyes are often used to enhance contrast, enabling clearer visualization of specific features within the sample.