Types of Microscope

Super Resolved Fluorescence Microscope

• Uses light
• Very high resolution (0.2nm)
• x1500 magnification

Advantages

• Stains that flouresce reveal different structures
• Good for viewing DNA + molecules

Disadvantages

• Some dyes interfere with cell parts

Laser Scanning (Confocal) Microscope

• Uses light
• 500nm resolution
• x1000 magnification
• Parts are labelled with a fluorescent dye.

Advantages

• Non-invasive clinical diagnosis
• 3D image overlays

Disadvantages

• Resolution limited by wavelength of light
• Dyes can interfere with cell function

Atomic Force Microscope

• ”Feels” surface of specimen
• Uses light via a laser diode
• 0.1nm resolution
• x100 000 000 magnification

Advantages

• Normal cell conditions
• Living systems
• Drug interactions

Disadvantages

• Can’t see inside cells, surface only

Transmission Electron Microscope (TEM)

• Magnification up to x2000000
• 2D greyscale image
• Resolution of 0.5nm

Advantages

• Seeing ultra structure

Disadvantages

• Expensive
• Large
• Prone to artifacts
• Samples will be killed

Scanning Electron Microscope (SEM)

• Magnification between x15 and x200000
• Resolution between 3nm and 10nm
• Sample kept in vacuum

Advantages

• 3D image
• Good for organism appearance

Disadvantages

• Very large
• Expensive
• Samples dead
• Salt stains are dangerous
• Requires training

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