Final answer:
The electron microscope, including transmission and scanning types, requires specimens to be non-living due to its viewing process that kills the specimen and requires a vacuum.
Step-by-step explanation:
The type of microscope that requires specimens to be non-living is the electron microscope. This includes both transmission electron microscopes (TEM) and scanning electron microscopes (SEM). Electron microscopes use a beam of electrons to achieve high magnification and resolution, allowing for great detail. However, the preparation process for viewing specimens under an electron microscope kills the specimen, and the electron beam requires a vacuum, which precludes the possibility of viewing living materials. They are advantageous for viewing living organisms, but their components are not distinguishable unless they are colored with special stains, which usually kill the cells.