Question

How do light microscopes differ from electron microscopes?

Answer 1

Light microscopes use light and can observe living cells but have lower resolution, whereas electron microscopes use electrons for higher magnification and resolution but kill the specimen and cannot view living cells.

Step-by-step explanation:

Light microscopes and electron microscopes greatly differ in how they visualize specimens. Light microscopes use beams of light to illuminate specimens, allowing for the observation of living cells, as the process does not kill them. However, they have lower resolution and magnification capabilities. In contrast, electron microscopes utilize a beam of electrons, offering higher magnification and higher resolution, which enables the viewing of more intricate details.

Unfortunately, the preparation process for electron microscopy kills the specimen, and due to their reliance on a vacuum to operate, they cannot be used to observe live cells. The cost of electron microscopes is also considerably higher and they are only suitable for viewing ultra-thin specimens.

Answer 2

In light microscope, source is light whereas in electron microscope, source is electron.
Electron microscopes have very low wavelength as compared to light microscope, so it gives larger resolving power.

Hope this helps!