Final answer:
Scientists studying small surface structures on yeast would likely utilize a scanning electron microscope to obtain high-resolution, three-dimensional views of the cell's surface.
Step-by-step explanation:
If scientists were studying a structure found on the surface of yeast, they would likely use a scanning electron microscope (SEM). SEMs are particularly useful for viewing surface structures of cells because they provide a three-dimensional view of the specimen, revealing details about the topography and composition of the surface. By scanning the specimen with a focused beam of electrons, an SEM generates high-resolution images that would be suitable for studying the small surface structures of yeast cells, which could be essential in understanding phenomena such as cell communication or infection processes.