Final answer:
Microscope examination of microbial cells requires magnification power to enlarge the appearance of these cells, which are typically a few micrometers in size. Light microscopes in college labs magnify up to 400x, while electron microscopes provide even greater magnifications for detailed observations.
Step-by-step explanation:
In the context of a microscope examination of microbial cells, the required power is magnification power. This is crucial for seeing tiny cells that are often a few micrometers in size. For instance, common light microscopes used in college biology labs provide a magnification of approximately 400 times, and when using oil immersion lenses, this can increase to about 1,000 times. This is needed to study smaller cells like most prokaryotic cells clearly.
Additionally, resolving power is essential to differentiate between two adjacent structures. Light microscopes allow light to pass through thin or translucent samples, enabling observation. Conversely, electron microscopes offer a much higher magnification of up to 100,000x and resolution of 50 picometers, which is suitable for detailed study of cell structures.