[Campbell Biology P.144] A microbiologist is studying the external, three-dimensional struct... | Practice Question

A microbiologist is studying the external, three-dimensional structure of a newly discovered bacterial species that forms thick biofilms. Which microscopy technique would be most appropriate for this investigation?

  • A: Transmission Electron Microscopy (TEM)
  • B: Phase-contrast microscopy
  • C: Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM)
  • D: Cryo-electron microscopy (cryo-EM)

Explanation

Scanning Electron Microscopy SEM is specifically described as producing 'a 3-D image of the surface of a specimen' and is suitable for visualizing structures like cilia on a trachea cell's surface. This makes it ideal for studying the external, 3-D structure of a thick bacterial biofilm.