A virologist wants to observe the three-dimensional surface features of virus particles she is studying. Which of the following microscopes would be most useful for her observations?
A) differential interference contrast
B) atomic force
C) scanning electron
D) transmission electron
E) atomic force or scanning electron

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Atomic force microscopy (AFM) and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) are both capable of providing three-dimensional surface images of samples, including viruses. AFM does this by scanning a probe over the surface of the sample to map its topography, while SEM scans a focused beam of electrons across the surface, detecting secondary electrons that provide detailed surface morphology images.

A Virologist Wants to Observe the Three-Dimensional Surface Features of Virus