Neco 2019 Biology Question 2

Practice practical question 2 from the 2019 Neco Biology examination. This question covers Cell Division .

Neco 2019 Biology Practical

Topic: Cell Division

Question 2 NECO • 2019 • BIOLOGY • practical

A fresh root tip of an onion (Allium cepa) is prepared as a squash slide and stained with acetocarmine. Under the microscope you examine 500 cells and record the number of cells in each stage of mitosis as follows: Prophase – 120 cells, Metaphase – 80 cells, Anaphase – 60 cells, Telophase – 40 cells, Interphase – 200 cells.

Question Parts

( a )

Calculate the mitotic index of the sample.

( b )

Determine the percentage of cells in each of the four mitotic phases (Prophase, Metaphase, Anaphase, Telophase).

( c )

From the percentages obtained, discuss which phase of mitosis appears to occupy the longest duration in the cell cycle and give a brief reason for this observation.

( d )

Suggest two possible sources of error in this experiment and explain how each could affect the calculated mitotic index.

Detailed Solution & Marking Scheme

Get the step-by-step solution, key points required by examiners and detailed marking guidance through the Edcrib AI Tutor.

Reveal Answer

About This Question

This is Neco 2019 Biology Question 2. It is one of the practical questions from the 2019 Neco Biology examination.

The question covers Cell Division .

View More Neco 2019 Biology Questions More Neco Practice Questions Back to Questions

Master the Exam!

You've seen a preview, but there are thousands more questions plus AI tutor to break down complex solutions.

Unlock Full Access Available for Android & Windows

Chat with Support