Methods of Studying Cells
- There are 3 main types of microscopes used to observe cells:
Light Microscope | Scanning Electron Microscope | Transmission Electron Microscope | |
Medium | Light Beam | Electron Beam | Electron Beam |
Dimensions | 2D | 3D | 2D |
Max Magnification | X1,500 | X200,00 | X2,000,000 |
Max Resolution | 200 nm | 20 nm | 0.1 nm |
- Magnification is how much bigger the image is compared to the original object viewed with the naked eye
- Magnification = (size of image)/(size of object)
- Resolution is how well a microscope distinguishes between two points that are close together.
- Cell fractionation can be used to separate organelles.
- Homogenisation- grinding cells release the organelles into solution
- Filtration- separates organelles & debris
- Ultracentrifugation- using a centrifuge the organelles are separated out in order of mass