Question

The magnification of a microscope depends inversely on the wavelength used to image a specimen. The very best quality light microscopes typically have maximum magnifications of 1000 – 4000 times. Modern TEMs use electrons accelerated to energies of over 100 keV to observe specimens.

Estimate the possible range of magnifications that can be achieved using a TEM by considering the following :

a) What is a reasonable choice for the wavelength used in a light microscope ?

b) What is the wavelength of a 100 keV electron ? show calculations

c) How do the wavelengths of the light and of the electrons compare ?

Answer 1