Why can an electron microscope show more detail than a light microscope?
Answer and explanation
Correct answer: D. Electrons have a much shorter wavelength
- Step 1: Resolution is limited by the wavelength of the radiation used.
- Step 2: Electron beams have wavelengths far shorter than visible light, so very close objects can be told apart.
Answer
Electrons have a much shorter wavelength.
Why not the others: Electrons have a longer wavelength: the wavelength of an electron beam is shorter, not longer. Electron microscopes magnify images using glass lenses: they use electromagnets to focus electrons. Electron microscopes use colour dyes that stain every organelle: images are produced without colour.
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