A-Level Biology AQA Notes

3.2.1.3 Methods of studying cells

Methods of studying cells
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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

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