While electron microscopy can be utilized to view the structures of biofilms, it has significant drawbacks. The preparation process requires dehydrating the specimen, which can distort the biofilm and introduce undesirable artifacts, making it less ideal than techniques like confocal microscopy for observing living microbial communities.

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Electron microscopy utilizes short-wavelength electron beams, focused with magnets, to significantly increase magnification and resolution compared to visible light. While light microscopes are limited by visible light wavelengths, electrons behave as waves with much smaller wavelengths, allowing an electron microscope to produce sharp images with magnifications ranging from $${}20	imes$$ to $${}100,000	imes$$ or more. This resolving power enables the visualization of subcellular and molecular structures. However, electron microscopy cannot be used on living material due to the harsh methods required to prepare the specimens prior to viewing.

Electron Microscopy

https://openstax.org/details/books/microbiology/

Microbiology covers the scope and sequence requirements for a single-semester microbiology course for non-majors. The book presents the core concepts of microbiology with a focus on applications for careers in allied health. The pedagogical features of the text make the material interesting and accessible while maintaining the career-application focus and scientific rigor inherent in the subject matter. Microbiology’s art program enhances students’ understanding of concepts through clear and effective illustrations, diagrams, and photographs.

Microbiology is produced through a collaborative publishing agreement between OpenStax and the American Society for Microbiology Press. The book aligns with the curriculum guidelines of the American Society for Microbiology.

OpenStax Microbiology Textbook

The transmission electron microscope (TEM) is a type of electron microscope that functions analogously to a brightfield microscope. It utilizes an electron gun to release an electron beam that is directed from above the specimen and focused using a magnetic lens. The electrons pass through the specimen and are then projected onto a detector to capture the image. TEM is particularly useful for observing small, thin specimens, such as tissue sections and subcellular structures.

Transmission Electron Microscope (TEM)

A scanning electron microscope (SEM) is an instrument that forms highly detailed images of the surfaces of specimens. It operates by directing a beam of electrons at the specimen, which knocks off electrons from its surface. These emitted electrons are detected and displayed on a monitor, producing images with a distinct three-dimensional appearance. Scanning electron microscopy is utilized to view the external surfaces of both very small samples and larger objects, such as pollen grains. Some electron microscopes can achieve magnifications up to $${}2,000,000	imes$$.

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