What is a disadvantage of light microscopes?

The disadvantage of light microscopes lies in their ability to produce low resolution images compared to other types of microscopes, such as electron microscopes. Light microscopes utilize visible light waves to illuminate specimens and magnify them through lenses. However, the wavelength of visible light limits the smallest detail that can be resolved. This means that when examining very small cells or structures, a light microscope may not provide sufficient clarity to distinguish between closely spaced features. This low resolution can be a significant limitation in biological research and diagnostics when high detail is required for observation.

In contrast, the other options highlight aspects that are typically advantageous or neutral features of light microscopes. High magnification is a strength of light microscopes, although not the highest compared to electron microscopes. They provide detailed color images because they operate using visible light. Furthermore, light microscopes can be relatively low in cost compared to more advanced imaging techniques.