The resolution of a microscope is about half its wavelength. Electron beams have shorter wavelengths than light. An electron beam of wavelength 1nm would have a resolution of about 0.5nm so the ultrastructure of a cell could be seen.Disadvantages of the electron microscope are
The image can be recorded digitally and false colour added to the image by computer software.
Transmission Electron Microscope.
- they are expensive and need special training to use
- the preparation process is complex
- they need to be housed under special conditions in a carefully controlled environment
- the electron beam may damage the specimen or create artefacts
- the specimens need to be dehydrated and in a vacuum to prevent the scattering of electrons so only dead specimens may be examined
The image can be recorded digitally and false colour added to the image by computer software.