Exam-style question
Try this first
What is a practical limit on the resolution of an electron microscope?.
- A.Wavelength of the electrons used
- B.Size of the sample being observed
- C.Type of detector used
- D.Temperature of the operating environment
Model answer
What a good answer should say
- Wavelength of the electrons used
Explanation
Why this works
The resolution of an electron microscope is fundamentally limited by the wavelength of the electrons. Shorter wavelengths allow for higher resolution, as per the wave-particle duality principle, which states that particles exhibit wave-like properties.
Common mistake
No common mistake is linked to this question yet.