Final answer:
The resolving power in biology refers to a lens's ability to produce sharp images of closely spaced objects. It is influenced by the wavelength of light and the numerical aperture of the lens.
Step-by-step explanation:
The resolving power in biology laboratories refers to the ability of a lens to produce sharp images of two closely spaced point objects, known as resolution. It is defined by the minimum distance by which two objects can be separated and still be seen as distinct. The resolving power is affected by the wavelength of light used and the numerical aperture of the lens.
For example, shorter wavelengths of light can resolve smaller objects, so electron microscopes with very short wavelengths have higher resolution compared to light microscopes that use longer-wavelength visible light. Additionally, a higher numerical aperture improves resolution because it indicates a lens's ability to gather light.