# A student wants to view bacteria using a light microscope and then using an electron microscope. Explain why the electron microscope allows the student to see more detail inside the bacterial cells than the light microscope.

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

> Bacteria are very small cells that lack a nucleus. Scientists use different types of microscopes to study their internal structures.

## Mark scheme (4 marks)

1. The electron microscope has a higher magnification than the light microscope
2. The electron microscope has a greater resolution / resolving power than the light microscope
3. Resolution is the ability to distinguish between two points that are close together
4. This means smaller / finer internal structures (organelles / subcellular structures) can be seen clearly in the electron microscope

## 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-student-wants-to-view-bacteria-9b4ed000) · Published by Druglandscape Ltd.