Which statement best describes the difference between a telescope and a microscope?

The distinction between a telescope and a microscope primarily revolves around their intended uses and the nature of the objects they observe. A telescope is engineered to collect and magnify light from distant objects, such as stars, planets, and other celestial phenomena. This enables astronomers to observe objects that are millions or billions of kilometers away, making them appear closer and more detailed.

Conversely, a microscope is designed to magnify very small, close objects, such as cells or microorganisms that are not visible to the naked eye. It uses a series of lenses to magnify the image of these tiny subjects, which can be found on slides or within samples.

Understanding this usage clarifies why the statement about the telescope focusing on distant observation and the microscope on small, close objects is the most accurate description of their differences.