AP Biology
Name: ___________________________
Chapter 4: Cell Structure and Function
Date: ____________
Microscope Reading Assignment
Period: __________
Directions: Read the Nature of Science section of Chapter 4 found on pages 63-64. Answer the questions
below.
1. Describe the capabilities of each type of microscope listed below (What can they be used to
view? What is their maximum magnification?)
A. Compound Light Microscope –
B. Transmission Electron Microscope –
C. Scanning Electron Microscope –
2. What is magnification? Why is there a difference in magnification between light microscopes
and electron microscopes?
3. What is resolution? List two ways of improving resolution.
4. Describe how contrast affects the ability to view a specimen.
5. How does viewing a specimen using a light microscope differ from viewing a specimen using an
electron microscope?
6. What is video-enhanced contrast microscopy?