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In 2012, two scientists were awarded the Nobel prize for their research on stem cells - Edexcel - GCSE Biology Combined Science - Question 4 - 2018 - Paper 1
Question 4
In 2012, two scientists were awarded the Nobel prize for their research on stem cells. They showed that adult cells could be reprogrammed to become cells with the p... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer:In 2012, two scientists were awarded the Nobel prize for their research on stem cells - Edexcel - GCSE Biology Combined Science - Question 4 - 2018 - Paper 1
Step 1
Describe the possible benefits of this research.
Answer
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Potential to Produce Any Cell Type: This research suggests that reprogrammed adult cells can develop into any cell type, offering possibilities for regenerative medicine and tissue repair.
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No Need for Embryonic Stem Cells: It eliminates the ethical concerns surrounding the use of embryonic stem cells, as it utilizes adult cells which do not necessitate the destruction of embryos.
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Reduced Risk of Rejection: Patients are less likely to reject their own reprogrammed cells when used for therapies, minimizing complications associated with cell transplants.
Step 2
Explain how a magnification of 400x can be obtained using the lenses on a light microscope.
Answer
To achieve a magnification of 400x, a light microscope typically uses a combination of lenses. For instance, a standard eyepiece lens with a magnification of 10x is combined with an objective lens that magnifies the specimen 40x. This is calculated as follows:
Thus,
This setup allows for detailed observation of specimens at a higher magnification level.