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Multiple Choice
Which of the following describes a light microscope but not an electron microscope?
A
Can achieve higher magnification than electron microscopes
B
Uses electron beams to visualize specimens
C
Requires a vacuum environment for operation
D
Uses visible light to illuminate specimens
Verified step by step guidance
1
Understand the basic principles of how light microscopes and electron microscopes work. Light microscopes use visible light to illuminate specimens, while electron microscopes use beams of electrons.
Recognize that light microscopes are typically used for viewing living cells and tissues because they do not require a vacuum environment, unlike electron microscopes.
Identify that electron microscopes can achieve much higher magnification and resolution than light microscopes, which is why they are used for detailed views of cell structures.
Note that electron microscopes require a vacuum environment to operate because electrons can be scattered by air molecules, which is not the case for light microscopes.
Conclude that the statement 'Uses visible light to illuminate specimens' describes a light microscope, as it differentiates it from electron microscopes that use electron beams.