Neco Model Questions Vol1 2023 Biology Question 2

Practice practical question 2 from the 2023 Neco Model Questions Vol1 Biology examination. This question covers Cell Division .

Neco Model Questions Vol1 2023 Biology Practical
Topic: Cell Division
Question 2 NECO_MODEL_QUESTIONS_VOL1 • 2023 • BIOLOGY • practical

A sample of root tip from a 5‑day‑old pea (Pisum sativum) plant was collected, fixed in Carnoy's solution, stained with aceto‑orcein, and a slide was prepared. Under a microscope (10× ocular, 40× objective) the student examined 200 cells and recorded the number of cells in each stage of mitosis as follows: Prophase: 30 cells Metaphase: 45 cells Anaphase: 20 cells Telophase: 15 cells Interphase: 90 cells

Question Parts

( a )
Calculate the mitotic index (percentage of cells undergoing mitosis) for the sample.
( b )
Determine the percentage of cells in each mitotic phase (prophase, metaphase, anaphase, telophase) relative to the total number of cells observed.
( c )
Based on the percentages obtained, infer which phase of mitosis is the longest in duration and explain why the distribution of cells in the different phases can be used to estimate relative durations.
( d )
Identify two possible sources of error that could affect the accuracy of the mitotic index obtained.

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About This Question

This is Neco Model Questions Vol1 2023 Biology Question 2. It is one of the practical questions from the 2023 Neco Model Questions Vol1 Biology examination.

The question covers Cell Division .

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