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Multiple Choice
Which type of microscope cannot image live specimens?
A
Phase-contrast microscope
B
Light microscope
C
Electron microscope
D
Confocal microscope
Verified step by step guidance
1
Understand the basic types of microscopes: Light microscopes use visible light to illuminate specimens, while electron microscopes use beams of electrons.
Recognize that light microscopes, including phase-contrast and confocal microscopes, can often be used to view live specimens because they do not require the specimen to be in a vacuum.
Learn that electron microscopes, such as transmission electron microscopes (TEM) and scanning electron microscopes (SEM), require specimens to be placed in a vacuum, which is not suitable for live specimens.
Consider the preparation process for electron microscopy, which often involves fixing, dehydrating, and sometimes staining the specimen, making it incompatible with live specimens.
Conclude that the electron microscope cannot image live specimens due to the need for a vacuum and extensive specimen preparation.