Understand and Identify the Stages of the Cell Cycle and Mitosis

3.01 Lab Report

Purpose: Understand and identify the stages of the cell cycle and mitosis. Apply an analytical technique to estimate the relative length of each stage of the cell cycle.

Procedure:

Data and Observations: Fill in the data table containing a tally of the number of cells observed in each of the following stages:

Stage: Number of Cells in Part 1: Number of Cells in Part 2: Interphase Prophase Metaphase Anaphase Telophase Cytokinesis

Record any observations about the cells you observed (what does the cell look like for each stage):

Stage: Observations Part 1: Observations in Part 2: Interphase Prophase Metaphase Anaphase Telophase Cytokinesis

Data Analysis: Calculate the percentage of the cell cycle spent in each stage. Number of cells in given stage ÷ total number of cells counted × 100 = % of the cell cycle spent in this stage

Stage: Percentage of Cells Part 1: Percentage of Cells in Part 2: Interphase Prophase Metaphase Anaphase Telophase Cytokinesis

Create a graph that represents the time spent in each stage of the cell cycle. (you may place the graph here or submit as a separate attachment) Conclusion: Be sure to answer the following reflection questions in the conclusion of your lab report: 1. Based on your data, what can you infer about the length of time spent in each stage of the cell cycle?

Hint: An inference is what you are able to conclude based on the data, facts or observations.

Stage: Based on my data and length of time spent in this stage, I can infer … Interphase Prophase Metaphase Anaphase Telophase Cytokinesis

2. What stages were the longest and shortest? Give a brief explanation of why these stages may have that time period.

The longest stage is ….. The shortest stage is ….. I believe the reason for this is …..

3. What is a distinguishing visible feature of each stage of the cell cycle?

Stage: A distinguishing visible feature for this stage is … Interphase Prophase Metaphase Anaphase Telophase Cytokinesis

4. What differences can you see when you compare the nucleus of a dividing cell with that of a nondividing cell?

Stage: What I see inside the nucleus of this cell is … Dividing Cell Non-Dividing Cell

5. If your observation had not been restricted to the tip of the onion root, how would the results be different? Hint: Remember the cells elsewhere in the plant are mature cells. Considering this, describe which phase of the cell cycle you would expect to see more cells undergoing – Interphase or Cell Division?

All parts need to be included to receive full credit for the lab.

If you need help please contact your biology instructor.