Question

In what situation(s) would a transmission electron microscope be ideal, and why?

Short answer

Transmission electron microscopy uses a beam of electrons that pass through thin sections of the specimen to produce high-resolution images of the internal structures of cells.

Step-by-step solution

Introduction

Transmission electron microscopy (TEM) uses a fine beam of electrons directed on a thin slice of a specimen by electromagnetic lenses. The electrons passing through the specimen are collected on a detector to produce an image.

Explanation

Transmission electron microscopy (TEM) can produce images with a resolution of 0.2nm. The area of the specimen that has less density will allow more electrons to pass through generating a brighter image. A darker image is obtained in areas of high density. This contrast provides information on the structure, shape, texture, and size of the specimen.