Set up and use a Microscope ( Topic 2)

Question 1

Describe how you can prepare the sample to be viewed under the microscope.

Answer 1

1. Cut the tip of the roots using a scalpel.
2. Place the root tips in a test tube and Heat with hydrochloric acid.
3. Remove the root tip and place it on a watch glass.
4. Place the root tip on the microscopic slide, then use filter paper to remove any excess water.
5. Place a few drops of the stain onto the root tip.
6. Use a mounted needle to lower the coverslip.
7. Gently press down the coverlip, making sure that it does not go sideways.

Question 2

Why do you use the tips of the roots for this experiment?

Answer 2

This is where mitosis occurs.

Question 3

Why do you heat the root tip with hydrochloric acid?

Answer 3

To soften and loosen the root tissues.

Question 4

Why do you stain the root tip?

Answer 4

To make the chromosomes visible.

Question 5

Why do you use a mounted needle to lower the coverslip?

Answer 5

To prevent air bubbles from forming under the coverlip.

Question 6

Why do you press down on the coverlip but make sure it does not move sideways?

Answer 6

To spread out the cells into a single layer so that light can pass through, but make sure they don’t roll over each other.