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 10 of 19 in this topic. Focus on the labels, the relationships between parts, and the explanation that turns the diagram into an exam-ready answer.
Topic position
Section 10 of 19
Practice
18 questions
Recall
20 flashcards
⚖️ Comparing Microscope Types
| 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 |