why is hydrochloric acid used?
softens and loosens the root tissues
why is a stain used?
stain chromosomes so they are visible
why is a mounted needle used?
to lower coverslip and prevent air bubbles under cover slip
why is root tip used?
the growing region, so where mitosis is occurring
why do you press down firmly on coverslip?
to get a thin layer of cells so light can pass through
when counting cells what should you do to ensure your count is accurate?
examine large number of fields of view so. many cells, to ensure representative sample