4.2 (c) To prepare and examine one plant cell, stained and unstained, using the light microscope

Step 1 Cut the onion in half.

Locate the epidermis between two layers. Step 2 Locate the epidermis between two layers.

Cut the epidermis into small pieces. Step 3 Cut the epidermis into small pieces.

Place the epidermis into water in a petri dish. Step 4 Place the epidermis into water in a petri dish.

Using a dropper, place a drop of water on the slide. Step 5 Using a dropper, place a drop of water on the slide.

Transfer the epidermis into the water using a paintbrush. Step 6 Transfer the epidermis into the water using a paintbrush.

Apply the cover slip at a 45° angle. Step 7 Apply the cover slip at a 45° angle.

Lower using a mounted needle. Step 8 Lower using a mounted needle.

Step 9 Dry gently using tissue. View unstained using the microscope.

Apply iodine to one side and draw across using filter paper. Step 10 To stain: Apply iodine to one side and draw across using filter paper.

Examine under the microscope using the usual procedure. Step 11 Examine under the microscope using the usual procedure.

Expected result

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