A student compared the number of stomata on the upper and lower surfaces of a leaf - Edexcel - GCSE Biology Combined Science - Question 6 - 2018 - Paper 1
Question 6
A student compared the number of stomata on the upper and lower surfaces of a leaf.
She completed a leaf peel as shown in Figure 12.
Worked Solution & Example Answer:A student compared the number of stomata on the upper and lower surfaces of a leaf - Edexcel - GCSE Biology Combined Science - Question 6 - 2018 - Paper 1
Step 1
Identify the aim of the experiment.
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Answer
The aim of the experiment is to compare the number of stomata present on the upper and lower surfaces of a leaf.
Step 2
Describe the method used for leaf peeling.
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Answer
Select a healthy leaf for the experiment.
Carefully peel a thin layer from both the upper and lower surfaces of the leaf to expose the stomata.
Place the leaf peel on a glass slide with a drop of water to keep it moist and prevent it from drying out.
Observe the leaf peel under a microscope to count the number of stomata on each surface.
Step 3
Explain why the leaf should be kept flat.
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Answer
Keeping the leaf flat ensures that the leaf peel remains in contact with the slide, making it easier to observe and count the stomata without distortion.