Summary
TEM and SEM use electron beams to achieve resolution thousands of times better than light microscopes.
In depth
TEM transmits electrons through ultrathin sections (below 100 nm); SEM scans a surface coated with gold for 3D images. Resolution about 0.1 nm for TEM. Artefacts can arise from fixation.
Samples are fixed, dehydrated, embedded and sliced for TEM. SEM needs conductive coating. Images are greyscale; colours are added artificially.
Key idea: electron microscopes reveal ultrastructure but cannot view living cells.
Frequently asked questions
What is Electron Microscopy?
TEM and SEM use electron beams to achieve resolution thousands of times better than light microscopes.
Which area of biology covers Electron Microscopy, and how advanced is it?
Electron Microscopy is one of the 51 topics in Lab Methods & Biostatistics. It is rated Intermediate, so it suits learners who already know the core vocabulary. Related topics in this area include Magnification and Resolution, Light Microscope, Staining Techniques.
Can you give an example of Electron Microscopy?
TEM first revealed the internal structure of mitochondria.
What should I learn before Electron Microscopy?
Work through the Beginner topics in Lab Methods & Biostatistics first, such as Scientific Method, Hypothesis, Variables, then return to Electron Microscopy. Intermediate topics assume the Beginner vocabulary.
What topics are related to Electron Microscopy?
The closest topics to Electron Microscopy are Magnification and Resolution, Light Microscope, Staining Techniques, Confocal Microscopy. Comparing them side by side is a good way to see how the ideas connect.
How can I check that I understand Electron Microscopy?
Read the summary and the in-depth section, then use the quick check on the interactive lesson for Electron Microscopy. To practise the whole of Lab Methods & Biostatistics, use the Lab Methods & Biostatistics quiz.
How is Electron Microscopy different from Magnification and Resolution?
Electron Microscopy: TEM and SEM use electron beams to achieve resolution thousands of times better than light microscopes. Magnification and Resolution: Magnification enlarges an image, while resolution is the ability to distinguish two close points. Read both side by side and note what each one explains.
How should I study Electron Microscopy step by step?
First, read the summary and write the definition in your own words. Second, read the in-depth section and note any example. Third, compare it with Magnification and Resolution and explain the difference aloud. Finally, take the Lab Methods & Biostatistics quiz and come back to this page for any question you miss.