Ijmb Model Questions Vol1 2018 Biology Question 2

Practice practical question 2 from the 2018 Ijmb Model Questions Vol1 Biology examination. This question covers Cell Division, Mitosis, Microscopy .

Ijmb Model Questions Vol1 2018 Biology Practical
Topics: Cell Division Mitosis Microscopy
Question 2 IJMB_MODEL_QUESTIONS_VOL1 • 2018 • BIOLOGY • practical

You are investigating mitotic activity in the root tip of an onion (Allium cepa). A slide is prepared using the squash technique and stained with aceto‑orcein. Under the microscope you examine a random field and count a total of 500 cells. The numbers of cells observed in each stage of mitosis are: prophase 30, metaphase 20, anaphase 15, telophase 10. Answer the following:

Question Parts

( a )
Calculate the mitotic index (percentage of cells in mitosis).
( b )
Determine the percentage of the total cells that are in each individual phase of mitosis.
( c )
The normal mitotic index for a healthy onion root tip is 3–5%. State whether the observed index is within the normal range and give a possible biological explanation for the result.
( d )
Suggest one procedural precaution that could reduce error when counting mitotic cells on the slide.

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About This Question

This is Ijmb Model Questions Vol1 2018 Biology Question 2. It is one of the practical questions from the 2018 Ijmb Model Questions Vol1 Biology examination.

The question covers Cell Division, Mitosis, Microscopy .

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