| Feature | Light Microscope | TEM | SEM |
|---|---|---|---|
| Radiation Used | Light waves | Electron beam | Electron beam |
| Maximum Magnification | ×1500 | ×2,000,000 | ×500,000 |
| Resolution | 200 nm | 0.05 nm | 3-10 nm |
| Specimen Preparation | Simple, can be living | Complex, must be dead | Complex, must be dead |
| Cost | Low | Very high | Very high |
| Portability | Portable | Large, fixed installation | Large, fixed installation |
| Image Type | Color, 2D | Black/white, 2D | Black/white, 3D appearance |
| Vacuum Required | No | Yes | Yes |
| Best For | Living specimens, basic cell structure | Internal ultrastructure | Surface details |
This diagram covers Comparing Microscope Types within Microscopy for GCSE Biology. Light and electron microscopes, magnification and resolution calculations, specimen preparation, staining techniques, and practical microscopy skills It is section 11 of 20 in this topic. Focus on the labels, the relationships between parts, and the explanation that turns the diagram into an exam-ready answer.
Practice questions for Microscopy
What is magnification?
Explain why specimens are stained before viewing under a light microscope.
Quick recall flashcards
What is resolution?
Resolution is the ability to distinguish between two separate points that are close together. It determines how clear and detailed an image is.
What is magnification?
Magnification is how many times larger an image appears compared to the actual object. It tells us how much bigger something looks through a microscope.