Required Practical 2: Observing Mitosis

Required Practical 2: Observing Mitosis

Equipment

• Garlic or onion root tips
• 1M hydrochloric acid
• Toluidine blue stain
• Glass slides and coverslips
• Mounted needles
• Water bath at 60°C

Method

1. Cut 5mm from growing root tips
2. Place in 1M HCl at 60°C for 5 minutes
3. Wash root tips in cold water
4. Place on slide with toluidine blue stain
5. Cover with coverslip and tap gently to spread cells
6. Observe under microscope at x400 magnification
7. Identify different stages of mitosis

Safety Considerations

• Wear safety goggles when using HCl
• Use water bath safely - avoid burns
• Handle glass slides carefully
• Dispose of biological material appropriately

Expected Observations

• Interphase cells (most common) - nucleus visible
• Prophase - chromosomes condensing
• Metaphase - chromosomes aligned at equator
• Anaphase - chromosomes moving to poles
• Telophase - new nuclei forming