Final answer:
Light microscopes allow viewing of living organisms and are generally less expensive, but have lower resolving power and require staining that kills cells. Electron microscopes provide high resolution and are useful for detailed examination of specimens' structure, but are more expensive and require preparation procedures that preclude the observation of living tissues.
Step-by-step explanation:
Advantages and Disadvantages of Different Microscopes
Understanding the pros and cons of light microscopes and electron microscopes is essential for selecting the right tool in microscopy.
- Advantages of Light Microscopes
Can view living organisms. - Does not kill cells with the light beam.
- Generally less expensive and simpler to use.
Disadvantages of Light Microscopes
- Have lower resolving power, making it difficult to see ultra-structural details.
- Visible components within cells are not distinguishable unless stained, which typically kills the cells.
Advantages of Electron Microscopes
- High resolution, allowing viewing of intricate details of a specimen.
- Valuable for examining surface details (in scanning electron microscopes) and internal structures (in transmission electron microscopes).
Disadvantages of Electron Microscopes
- Typically more costly than light microscopes.
- Specimens must be killed, dehydrated, and coated with metals, therefore cannot view living organisms.