Microscopy:The Instruments Resolution is the ability of the lenses to distinguish two points. A microscope with a resolving power of 0.4 nm can distinguish between two points 0.4 nm. Shorter wavelengths of light provide greater resolution. • Resolution is the ability of the lenses to distinguish two points. • A microscope with a resolving power of 0.4 nm can distinguish between two points ≥ 0.4 nm. • Shorter wavelengths of light provide greater resolution. Microscopy: The Instruments