2 - Preparing a root tip squash

Question 1

Why is it important not to twist microscope slide as you press down?

Answer 1

Could damage/ break open cells so mitosis wouldn’t be able to occur
May also cause cells to overlap

Question 2

Why was the root tip heated with acid?

Answer 2

To break up the tissues into individual cells, the hcl breaks the cellulose cell walls down

Question 3

Why should you press down firmly on cover slip?

Answer 3

Make the sample a thin layer of cells so that light can easily pass through

Question 4

Why is only the first 5mm of garlic root used?

Answer 4

Because that is the meristem tissue where there are lots of dividing cells - mitosis takes place here

Question 5

How do you assess how long each stage of mitosis takes to be completed?

Answer 5

Count the number of cells in each stage of mitosis and record results in a table( only count whole cells and repeat counts to ensure accuracy)

Then use: