Exam-style question
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What limits the resolution of an electron microscope?.
- A.The wavelength of the electrons used.
- B.The type of lenses employed.
- C.The size of the specimen being observed.
- D.The temperature of the electron source.
Model answer
What a good answer should say
- The wavelength of the electrons used.
Explanation
Why this works
The cause is that the resolution of an electron microscope is fundamentally linked to the wavelength of the electrons. The mechanism is that shorter wavelengths can resolve finer details in the specimen.
The effect is that if the wavelength is too long, the microscope cannot distinguish between closely spaced features. The consequence is that the maximum resolution achievable is limited by the electron wavelength, which is why advancements in electron sources are crucial.
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