Differences Between Light Microscopes and Electron Microscopes

Light Microscopes

• Common Use: Often used in classrooms; conventional.
• Advantages:
  • Small, easy to use, and relatively cheap.
• Resolution:
  • Relies on light with a wavelength of 0.2 micrometers.
  • Resolution limit is 0.2 micrometers; details smaller than this appear blurry.
• Applications:
  • Suitable for viewing individual cells (e.g., onion cells).
  • Not suitable for viewing subcellular structures like mitochondria.

Electron Microscopes

• Usage: Primarily used in scientific laboratories; not commonly available for general use due to size and cost.
• Advantages:
  • Use electrons with a wavelength of 0.1 nanometers.
  • Much higher resolution of 0.1 nanometers.
  • Can achieve 2,000 times better resolution than light microscopes.
• Applications:
  • Capable of producing high magnification images without blurriness.
  • Suitable for studying subcellular structures such as mitochondria.
  • Example: Image of a pancreatic cell showing a clear nucleus and mitochondria.

Key Takeaways

• Comparisons:
  • Light microscopes are accessible and affordable but have limited resolution.
  • Electron microscopes are costly and complex but offer superior resolution.
• Exam Tips:
  • Be prepared to compare pros and cons of each type.
• Additional Resources:
  • Practice questions are available on the website linked in the video description.