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In the case of any two of the following, describe a laboratory or field method: (a) To assess the quality of grass silage - Leaving Cert Agricultural Science - Question 4 - 2012
Question 4
In the case of any two of the following, describe a laboratory or field method: (a) To assess the quality of grass silage. (b) To prepare a sample of plant cells f... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer:In the case of any two of the following, describe a laboratory or field method: (a) To assess the quality of grass silage - Leaving Cert Agricultural Science - Question 4 - 2012
Step 1
To assess the quality of grass silage.
Answer
To assess the quality of grass silage, you can conduct a Leaf to Stem Ratio test or a pH test.
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Leaf to Stem Ratio:
- Weigh a sample of silage.
- Separate the leaves from the stems.
- Weigh both leaves and stems separately to calculate the ratio of leaf weight to stem weight. This ratio indicates the overall quality of the silage; a higher leaf content usually suggests better quality.
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pH Test:
- Squeeze some of the silage to collect the liquid.
- Add distilled water to this liquid and test the pH.
- Compare the result with a color chart. A pH range indicating poor quality would be outside 4.0 - 6.0.
Step 2
To prepare a sample of plant cells for examination under a microscope.
Answer
To prepare a sample of plant cells for examination:
- Preparing the Slide:
- Get a clean glass slide and wet it with water.
- Remove a piece of plant tissue (such as a leaf) from the plant.
- Using a scalpel or blade, cut the tissue thinly and place it on the slide.
- Add a drop of iodine solution to stain the cells, which will help in visualizing the cellular structures better.
- Cover the sample with a cover slip to prevent it from drying out and to keep the specimen flat.
- Finally, observe under a microscope.