Which type of microscope is most commonly used in science classrooms for observing cells and microorganisms?

• A. Confocal laser scanning microscope
• B. Transmission electron microscope
• C. Compound light microscope
• D. Scanning electron microscope

Answer: (C)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand the purpose of the question: it asks which microscope is most commonly used in science classrooms for observing cells and microorganisms.
2. Review the characteristics of each microscope type: Confocal laser scanning microscopes provide detailed 3D images but are expensive and complex; Transmission electron microscopes offer very high resolution but require extensive sample preparation and are not common in classrooms; Scanning electron microscopes provide surface details but are also costly and complex.
3. Recognize that the compound light microscope is widely used in classrooms because it is affordable, easy to use, and allows observation of live or stained cells and microorganisms at sufficient magnification and resolution for educational purposes.
4. Recall that the compound light microscope uses visible light and multiple lenses to magnify specimens, making it suitable for routine cell observation in educational settings.
5. Conclude that the compound light microscope is the most appropriate and commonly used microscope in science classrooms for observing cells and microorganisms.