Question

Compare and contrast the benefits and weaknesses of scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and transmission electron microscopy (TEM).

a) SEM provides 3D images, while TEM offers higher resolution.
b) SEM uses electrons to scan the surface, while TEM penetrates samples for internal imaging.
c) SEM is ideal for observing cell surfaces; TEM provides detailed internal structures.
d) SEM has higher magnification than TEM; TEM is quicker in sample preparation.

Answer 1

The scanning electron microscopy (SEM) provides 3D images and is ideal for observing cell surfaces, while the transmission electron microscopy (TEM) offers higher resolution and provides detailed internal structures. SEM has higher magnification, while TEM is quicker in sample preparation.

Step-by-step explanation:

The scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and the transmission electron microscopy (TEM) are two types of electron microscopes with different benefits and weaknesses.

1. SEM provides 3D images and can be used to view the surfaces of larger objects and very small samples.
2. TEM offers higher resolution and can be used to observe the internal structures such as organelles and the interior of membranes.
3. SEM has higher magnification, while TEM is quicker in sample preparation.