A student investigated mitosis in the root tip of a garlic plant - Edexcel - GCSE Biology - Question 2 - 2019 - Paper 1
Question 2
A student investigated mitosis in the root tip of a garlic plant.
(i) Explain why the student used the tip of the root.
(ii) The student squashed the root tip on a ... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer:A student investigated mitosis in the root tip of a garlic plant - Edexcel - GCSE Biology - Question 2 - 2019 - Paper 1
Step 1
Explain why the student used the tip of the root.
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Answer
The student used the tip of the root because it contains meristematic cells that are actively dividing. These cells are essential for growth, making them the ideal location for studying the process of mitosis.
Step 2
Describe how to use the microscope to obtain a clear image of the cells.
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Answer
To obtain a clear image of the cells using the microscope, first switch the lamp on. Then, start with the lowest objective lens and look through the eyepiece lens. Finally, use the focusing wheel to adjust and obtain a clear image.
Step 3
State what can be added to the root tip squash to make the chromosomes visible.
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Staining solution can be added to the root tip squash to make the chromosomes visible.
Step 4
Which stage of mitosis is shown in Figure 2?
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Answer
The stage of mitosis shown in Figure 2 is metaphase.
Step 5
Describe what is happening in Figure 2.
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Answer
In Figure 2, the chromosomes are aligned at the equatorial plane of the cell. The spindle fibers are attached to the centromeres of the chromosomes, pulling them towards opposite poles of the cell. This arrangement is crucial for ensuring that each daughter cell will receive an equal set of chromosomes during cell division.
