Experiment - The amount of cell division in the Allium cepa root tip cell

Authors Avatar

The amount of cell division in the Allium cepa root tip cell

Mitosis is the main part of cell division. It is a process where a single cell divides resulting in two identical cells, each containing the same number of chromosomes and genetic content as that of the original cell. It consists from four phases respectively:

  • Prophase
  • Formation of chromosomes
  • Disappearance of the nuclear envelope
  • Metaphase
  • Chromosomes align along the equator of the cells
  • Anaphase
  • Chromosomes are split into two sister chromatids by spindle fibers and are pulled to the poles of the cell
  • Telophase
  • Two new nuclei are formed and the cytoplasm undergoes division
Join now!

This experiment will show us how many of the cells undergo division in an area of the root tip. It is important to know how fast plants can grow, in order to determine how long does it take them to develop, and as well this experiment could be used on corn roots, to know when people can plant them and as well harvest them.

Procedure:

  1. Set up the microscope with the sample
  1. Pick a thin layer of the onion root tip
  2. Put it on the slide
  1. Make sure the sample does not bend/fold

This is a preview of the whole essay