Waec Model Questions Vol1 2022 Biology Question 2

Practice practical question 2 from the 2022 Waec Model Questions Vol1 Biology examination. This question covers Cell Division .

Waec Model Questions Vol1 2022 Biology Practical
Topic: Cell Division
Question 2 WAEC_MODEL_QUESTIONS_VOL1 • 2022 • BIOLOGY • practical

You are to investigate cell division in the root tip of an onion (Allium cepa). Prepare a slide, stain with 2% aceto‑orcein, and examine the meristematic region under a light microscope (10× ocular, 40× objective). Record the number of cells observed in each phase of mitosis in five randomly selected fields.

Question Parts

( a )
Record the numbers of cells observed in prophase, metaphase, anaphase, telophase and interphase for each of the five fields as shown in the table. | Field | Prophase | Metaphase | Anaphase | Telophase | Interphase | |-------|----------|-----------|----------|-----------|------------| | 1 | 8 | 5 | 4 | 3 | 30 | | 2 | 7 | 6 | 5 | 2 | 28 | | 3 | 9 | 4 | 3 | 4 | 32 | | 4 | 6 | 7 | 5 | 3 | 27 | | 5 | 8 | 5 | 4 | 2 | 29 |
( b )
Calculate the total number of cells observed in all five fields.
( c )
Determine the mitotic index (percentage) for the sample. Show your working and give the answer to one decimal place.
( d )
Based on the mitotic index obtained, state whether the onion root tip is undergoing active cell division.
( e )
Suggest any two factors that could lead to an under‑estimation of the mitotic index in this experiment.

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About This Question

This is Waec Model Questions Vol1 2022 Biology Question 2. It is one of the practical questions from the 2022 Waec Model Questions Vol1 Biology examination.

The question covers Cell Division .

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