Question

According to Abbe’s equation on microscopy, the ability to resolve two entities inside a cell by light microscopy depends on which of the following factor/s?

• A. Magnification of the objective lens
• B. Intensity of incident light
• C. Wavelength
• D. Numerical aperture of the objective lens

Hint:

The resolving power of a microscope is determined by the wavelength of light and the numerical aperture of the objective lens according to Abbe’s equation.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is C, D

Step 1: Understanding Abbe’s equation.
Abbe’s equation states that the resolving power of a microscope is determined by the wavelength of light used and the numerical aperture (NA) of the objective lens. These factors define the microscope's ability to distinguish two points as separate entities.
Step 2: Analyzing the options.
- (A) Incorrect, while magnification improves the size of the image, it does not affect the resolution directly.
- (B) Incorrect, intensity affects the brightness but not the resolution of the microscope.
- (C) Correct, shorter wavelengths of light lead to better resolution, which is described by Abbe’s equation.
- (D) Correct, the numerical aperture (NA) of the lens determines the amount of light collected and affects the resolution, as described by Abbe’s equation.
Step 3: Conclusion.
Thus, the correct answers are (C) Wavelength and (D) Numerical aperture of the objective lens.