For the same objective, find the ratio of the least separation between two points to be distinguished by a microscope for the light of 5000 Ao and electrons accelerated through 100V used as the illuminating substance.

Hint: The resolution power of the microscope depends on the wavelength of the light.

Step 1: Find the least distance for the microscope.

We know that,

                Resolving power =1d=2sinβ1.22λdmin=1.22λ2 sin β

where λ is the wavelength of light and β is the angle subtended by the objective at the object. 

For the light of wavelength 5000 Ao,

                               dmin=1.22×5000×10-102 sin β

Step 1: Find the least distance for the electrons.

For electrons accelerated through 100 V, the de-Broglie wavelength;

         λ=12.27V=12.27100=0.12×10-9 m
dmin'=1.22×0.12×10-92 sin β

The ratio of the least separation;

           dmin'dmin=0.12×10-95000×10-10=0.24×10-3