prac 2 mitotic index

• where in plant cells does mitosis happen

  meristem tissue at the root and shoot tips
• what is the mitotic index ?

  the ratio of cells undergoing mitosis to the total number of cells in a sample
• how do you prepare a root tip slide?

  add 9 parts acetic orexin stain to one part HCL

  place solution on a hot plate

  add stain to root tip

  macerate the tip to separate cells

  add a cover slip
• mitotic index 


  mitotic index = number of cells with visible chromosomes / number of cells in sample
• what are the risks for this experiment?

  HCL - corrosive, goggles and avoid skin contact

  stain - irritant, goggles and avoid contact with skin

  scalpel - cut on a flat surface away from fingers