The diagram below shows a micrograph of cells in actively dividing tissue from the root tip of a plant.
Name the type of cell division shown in the diagram.
(1)
Give evidence from the diagram and information provided to justify your answer for part (i).
(3)
Complete the sentences below about the cells in the diagram shown in part (a)
Cell V is in ___________________ stage of cell division. This is because...
Cell W is in __________________ stage of cell division. This is because...
Cell X is in ___________________ stage of cell division. This is because...
The mitotic index is used to calculate the proportion of cells undergoing mitosis.
A student prepared a root tip squash and observed the cells under a light microscope. They counted a total of 57 cells and of these 36 were counted as undergoing mitosis.
Calculate the mitotic index of the dividing root tissue. Give your answer as a percentage.
The student further examined cells in the root tip under the microscope, and obtained the following data:
Stage of mitosis | Number of cells |
Interphase | 98 |
Prophase | 45 |
Metaphase | 26 |
Anaphase | 12 |
Telophase | 8 |
Calculate the percentage of these cells in which the chromosomes are visible and would consist of a pair of chromatids joined together. Give your answer to three significant figures.
(2)
Explain why, during this practical, the root tip must be firmly squashed.
(1)
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