What is the main difference between a telescope and a microscope?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The main difference between a telescope and a microscope lies in their primary functions. Telescopes are specifically designed to magnify and observe distant objects like stars, planets, and galaxies, making them essential tools for astronomy. In contrast, microscopes are utilized to magnify and study small objects such as cells, bacteria, and other microscopic organisms in fields like biology and medicine. Therefore, the key distinction is that telescopes focus on magnifying distant objects, while microscopes are tailored for magnifying small objects. Choice B is incorrect because while some microscopes may use mirrors in certain designs, the primary component is typically lenses. Choice C is incorrect as telescopes collect and focus light for observation, while microscopes use light to illuminate and magnify objects. Choice D is incorrect because while both instruments magnify objects, their main purposes and the types of objects they focus on are distinctly different.