Magnification - the degree to which the size of an image is larger than the object iteself
Resolution - the degree to which it is possible to distinguish between
two objects in close proximity
The Light Microscope has a magnification of x1500 and a resolution of 200nm
Staining is used to help visualise cells and their
components by providing contrast. Different
chemicals will take up different amounts of the
stain so will appear different colours.
the sample may also be embedded in wax so
thin sections can be cut without distorting the
specimen
Transmission Electron Microscopes have a magnification of x500,000 and a resolution of 0.1nm
the electron beam passes through the
sample; denser areas are harder to pass
through, so this provides contrast and
creates a 2D image
Using electron microscopes means the sample must be cut into
very thin pieces using a diamond knife, embedding in resin,
removing the water from the sample and replacing with ethanol and
freezing it.
Scanning Electron Microscopes have a magnification of 100,000 and a resolution of 0.1nm.
the electron beam bounces of the sample and produces a 3D image
the sample must be placed in a vacuum
because electrons will bounce of
airbourne particles
lead salts may be used for staining
in order to scatter electrons
differently and gives contrast