A Level Biology Practice Exam

What defines resolution in microscopy?

1. The clarity or sharpness of the image seen under the microscope

2. The ability to magnify objects sufficiently

3. The shortest distance between two objects that are still seen as separate objects

4. The color contrast between different structures

The correct answer is: The shortest distance between two objects that are still seen as separate objects

Resolution in microscopy refers to the shortest distance between two points that can still be distinguished as separate entities. This is a fundamental aspect of microscopy, as it determines the level of detail visible in the image produced. Higher resolution allows for clearer images where individual structures or cells can be discerned, which is crucial for biological analysis. Factors that influence resolution include the wavelength of the light used (in light microscopy) or the electron beam (in electron microscopy), as well as the numerical aperture of the lenses. Essentially, if two points are closer together than the resolution limit of the microscope, they will appear as a single point rather than two distinct points. This concept is vital for accurately studying the fine details of microscopic specimens in biology. Other concepts, such as clarity or sharpness of the image, magnification ability, and color contrast between structures, do not directly define resolution. While they are important for creating useful and informative images, they pertain to other aspects of microscopy. Thus, the focus on the ability to distinguish between closely spaced points makes the definition of resolution particularly critical in the field of microscopy.