[Campbell Biology P.143] A research team wants to study the detailed surface topography of p... | Practice Question

A research team wants to study the detailed surface topography of pollen grains and also observe the internal structures of a human fibroblast cell, including its organelles. Which combination of microscopes would be most suitable for these two distinct tasks, respectively?

  • A: Scanning Electron Microscope (SEM) for topography, Light Microscope (LM) for internal structures.
  • B: Transmission Electron Microscope (TEM) for topography, Light Microscope (LM) for internal structures.
  • C: Scanning Electron Microscope (SEM) for topography, Electron Microscope (EM) for internal structures.
  • D: Light Microscope (LM) for topography, Super-resolution Microscope for internal structures.

Explanation

The text states that the 'scanning electron microscope SEM is especially useful for detailed study of the topography of a specimen'. For observing 'internal structures' and 'organelles' in detail, the text mentions that 'to see these structures in any detail required the development of a new instrument' and that 'the electron microscope EM was introduced to biology'. While super-resolution microscopy is mentioned for overcoming the resolution barrier for organelles, for comprehensive detailed internal structures, EM specifically Transmission Electron Microscopy, a type of EM, though not explicitly named TEM is the gold standard.