Microscopes: optical vs SEM vs TEM vs AFM

In order to examine defects and imperfections in materials, we need microscopes capable of enhancing our vision beyond the human eye capability. To access the micro, nano, and atomic scales needed we must rely on different microscopes. The microscope options vary immensely in terms of cost, complexity, and capacity. The lowest cost option is optical microscopy. It can examine micrometer regimes well and can potentially get as low as hundreds of nanometers. It has the benefit of performing confocal microscopy to recreate 3dimensional images. Electron microscopy can enhance resolution by using shorter wavelength electrons rather than visible light. Electron microscopy can also add things like backscatter electron detection and energy dispersive spectroscopy allowing us to expand materials characterization capability.