How do light microscopes differ from electron microscopes?

Question

Lab Tool - Microscope

a
Light microscopes can be used to study proteins; electron microscopes cannot.
b
Light microscopes can magnify a specimen up to 100,000 times; electron microscopes magnify up to 1500 times.
c
Electron microscopes can be used to examine living specimens; light microscopes cannot.
d
Light microscopes can examine living specimens; electron microscopes cannot.

Answer 1

The correct statement regarding the differences between light microscopes and electron microscopes is:

d. Light microscopes can examine living specimens; electron microscopes cannot.

Here’s a brief explanation of the key differences:

• Light Microscopes: Use visible light and lenses to magnify specimens. They can typically magnify up to about 1,000 to 1,500 times and can be used to observe living organisms or cells.

• Electron Microscopes: Use beams of electrons instead of light to achieve much higher magnifications, typically up to 100,000 times or more. However, because the samples often require a vacuum and can be damaged by the electron beam, electron microscopes cannot be used to view living specimens.

The other statements contain inaccuracies regarding the capabilities and usage of light and electron microscopes.