# A scientist is studying the internal structure of a mitochondrion. Explain why the scientist would choose to use an electron microscope rather than a light microscope for this investigation.

> Edexcel GCSE Biology (1BI0) — 1.3 Microscopy · Explain · 4 marks

## Mark scheme (4 marks)

1. Electron microscopes have greater magnification than light microscopes
2. Electron microscopes have greater resolution / resolving power than light microscopes
3. This means finer / smaller structures inside the mitochondrion can be seen / distinguished
4. A light microscope does not have sufficient resolution / magnification to show the internal structure of a mitochondrion

## Key terms

- [electron microscope](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/glossary/electron-microscope)
- [light microscope](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/glossary/light-microscope)

## Related

- [Revision notes for Edexcel GCSE Biology (1BI0)](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/learn)
- [How to answer "Explain" questions](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/tools/command-word-cheatsheet)
- [Practice this with AI marking (free)](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/start)

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Source: [GradeNine](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/q/a-scientist-is-studying-the-internal-7e6591c1) · Published by Druglandscape Ltd.