IGCSE Biology glossary
Magnification
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Definition
The number of times larger an image is compared with the actual (real) size of the object.
What to include in an exam answer
Learn the formula: magnification = image size / actual size. The number one error is mismatched units, so convert both measurements to the same unit (usually mm or micrometres) before dividing, and remember 1 mm = 1000 micrometres. Magnification has no units and is written as, for example, x100. You may be asked to rearrange the formula to find actual size = image size / magnification, so practise all three versions.
Example in context
Calculating magnification: 'The drawing is 50 mm wide and the real cell is 0.05 mm wide, so magnification = image size / actual size = 50 / 0.05 = x1000.'
Related syllabus topic
Organisation of the organism