What type of light does fluorescence microscopy utilize?

Fluorescence microscopy utilizes ultraviolet (UV) light to excite fluorescent dyes that have been applied to a specimen. When the fluorescent molecules absorb UV light, they become energized and emit light at a longer wavelength when they return to their ground state. This emitted light is typically in the visible range, allowing researchers to visualize the fluorescently labeled structures within the sample.

The use of UV light is crucial because it provides the energy required to excite the fluorescent markers effectively. This allows for greater sensitivity and clarity in imaging compared to techniques using other types of light. In contrast, visible light is too weak to excite many fluorescent dyes adequately, while infrared and X-ray light are not suitable for this specific application in microscopy. Thus, the choice of UV light is essential for the function and success of fluorescence microscopy techniques.