# Explain why electron microscopes have allowed scientists to understand cell structure in greater detail than light microscopes.

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

## Mark scheme (4 marks)

1. Electron microscopes have a higher magnification than light microscopes
2. Electron microscopes have a higher resolution than light microscopes
3. Higher resolution means that details of sub-cellular structures / organelles can be seen more clearly / separately
4. Electron microscopes enabled the discovery / detailed study of structures such as mitochondria, ribosomes or the endoplasmic reticulum (or other named sub-cellular structure not visible under a light 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/explain-why-electron-microscopes-have-allowed-a3416826) · Published by Druglandscape Ltd.