What is resolution in the context of microscopy?

In microscopy, resolution refers to the ability to distinguish two separate points clearly. This is crucial because it defines the clarity and detail you can see in your images. High resolution means that two points can be seen as distinct entities, rather than merging into one blurry image. This characteristic depends on various factors, including the quality of the optics used in the microscope and the wavelength of light being utilized for illumination.

Resolution is distinct from magnification, which merely enlarges the image but does not necessarily improve clarity or detail. It is also important to differentiate resolution from specimen preparation methods or the amount of light reaching the specimen, as these aspects affect visibility but not the actual resolving power of the microscope itself. Understanding resolution is fundamental for micrography, especially when analyzing fine structures in biological samples.