Biology

Basically, a compound light microscope and a scanning electron microscope both operate by using tiny particles or waves to make objects visible. However, the particles or waves used differ between the two types of microscopes. A compound light microscope uses light photons to illuminate a sample, while a scanning electron microscope uses electrons. Therefore, since electrons are smaller than light photons, a scanning electron microscope has the ability to detect smaller specimens more clearly than a compound light microscope. Furthermore, a scanning electron microscope cannot offer color images as color is a function of light wave frequency, while a compound light microscope can offer images in vibrant colors. In order to make an image visible on a scanning electron microscope, electrons are bounced off of a cathode ray screen which is similar to the screen of a TV set or computer. Therefore, because of the differences in their structure and function, both types of microscopes are useful in examining a specimen, but each type offers different advantages based on the desired results.