Images Dated 25th June 2004

Microchip connecting wire, SEM

Micro-wire. Coloured scanning electron micrograph (SEM) of a micro-wire (yellow, often made of gold) connecting to the surface of a microchip. The microchip contains precision-engineered circuits packed into a very small space. A gradual increase in scale allows the microscopic circuit of the microchip (not seen) to connect to larger circuits. This micro-wire is one of several connections to the microchip, and it leads to the larger pins (also unseen) that are used to plug the microchip into a circuit board, such as found inside a computer. This microchip is from a chip and pin credit card. Magnification: x330 when printed 10cm high

© POWER AND SYRED/SCIENCE PHOTO LIBRARY

Germinated seed, SEM

Germinated seed. Image 4 of 4. Coloured scanning electron micrograph (SEM) of the final stage in the germination of a plant seed. The seed coat (testa) has been lost. The embryonic plant that emerged has two main parts. The radicle (white), the embryonic root, is growing downwards in a response to gravity that is called geotropism. The root hairs increase the ability of the root to obtain water and nutrients from its surroundings. The embryonic shoot (plumule) will grow upwards against gravity to the light, and its seed leaves (cotyledons, green) will photosynthesise. This is a swede (Brassica napus) seedling. For images of seed germination, see B787/394-397 and B787/398

© POWER AND SYRED/SCIENCE PHOTO LIBRARY

Food pyramid

Food pyramid showing the recommended proportions of food types for a healthy, balanced diet. The largest part of the diet should be carbohydrates from bread, cereal, rice and pasta (pyramid base), with 6-11 servings daily. The next layer of the pyramid is fruit and vegetables, with a combined amount of 6-9 servings daily. These provide many essential vitamins and minerals. The next layer is lean meat, beans, eggs and nuts (protein content), and milk, yoghurt and cheese (calcium and protein content), both groups requiring moderation (2-3 servings daily). Finally at the top of the pyramid are fats and oils, and sweets (added sugar), which should be used sparingly (0-3 servings daily)

© DAVID MUNNS/SCIENCE PHOTO LIBRARY