Prepare and examine a plant cell using a light microscope (LC 2026) (Leaving Cert Biology): Revision Notes

Prepare and examine a plant cell using a light microscope

Unstained plant cell

Materials needed:

• Microscope
• 2 microscope slides
• 2 cover slips

Procedure:

1. Set up the microscope.
2. Cut the onion and locate the epidermis.
3. Cut the epidermis into small pieces and put them into water.
4. Transfer one piece into the drop of water on the slide.
5. Apply the coverslip:

• Place the coverslip at the edge of the water, at an angle of 45° to the slide.
• Lower the coverslip onto the water, supporting it with a mounted needle, until it is in place. This prevents air bubbles forming.

6. Examine the slide and draw labelled diagram of what you observe.

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Stained plant cell

Materials needed:

• Microscope
• Microscope slides
• Cover slip
• Iodine stain

Procedure:

1. Set up the microscope.
2. Cut the onion and locate the epidermis.
3. Cut the epidermis into small pieces and put them into water.
4. Transfer one piece onto the slide.
5. Use a dropper to apply the iodine.
6. Apply the coverslip at a 45° angle.
7. Examine the slide and draw labelled diagram of what you observe.

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