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Multiple Choice
A fluorescent microscope uses which of the following to view a specimen?
A
Visible light
B
Electron beams
C
Infrared light
D
Ultraviolet light
Verified step by step guidance
1
Understand the principle of fluorescence: Fluorescence occurs when a substance absorbs light at one wavelength and emits light at a longer wavelength. In biological microscopy, this principle is used to visualize specimens that have been labeled with fluorescent dyes.
Identify the role of ultraviolet light: Ultraviolet (UV) light is used in fluorescent microscopy because it can excite fluorescent dyes. These dyes absorb the UV light and then emit visible light, which can be captured by the microscope to create an image.
Differentiate between light sources: Visible light is used in standard light microscopy, electron beams are used in electron microscopy, and infrared light is not typically used for fluorescence. UV light is specifically used to excite the fluorescent dyes in the specimen.
Consider the application of fluorescent microscopy: This technique is particularly useful for studying specific components within cells, such as proteins or nucleic acids, by tagging them with fluorescent markers.
Summarize the key point: Fluorescent microscopes utilize ultraviolet light to excite fluorescent dyes in the specimen, allowing for the visualization of specific structures or molecules within the sample.