Which of the following is a difference between a compound light microscope and a transmission electron microscope?

• A. A compound light microscope uses visible light to illuminate specimens, while a transmission electron microscope uses a beam of electrons.
• B. A compound light microscope can magnify specimens up to 500,000 times, while a transmission electron microscope is limited to 1,000 times magnification.
• C. A transmission electron microscope can be used to observe living cells, while a compound light microscope cannot.
• D. A compound light microscope requires specimens to be coated in metal, while a transmission electron microscope does not.

Answer: (A)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Step 1: Begin by understanding the basic principles of how each microscope works. A compound light microscope uses visible light and optical lenses to magnify specimens, while a transmission electron microscope (TEM) uses a beam of electrons and electromagnetic lenses for magnification.
2. Step 2: Compare the magnification capabilities of both microscopes. A compound light microscope typically magnifies up to 1,000 times, whereas a transmission electron microscope can achieve magnifications of up to 500,000 times or more.
3. Step 3: Consider the type of specimens each microscope can observe. A compound light microscope can be used to observe living cells, as it does not require extensive preparation. In contrast, a transmission electron microscope requires specimens to be fixed, dehydrated, and coated in metal, making it unsuitable for observing living cells.
4. Step 4: Examine the preparation requirements for specimens. A transmission electron microscope requires specimens to be coated in metal to enhance electron scattering, while a compound light microscope does not have this requirement.
5. Step 5: Review the illumination source for each microscope. A compound light microscope uses visible light as its illumination source, whereas a transmission electron microscope uses a beam of electrons to illuminate specimens.