Onion Cells - Investigation

Purpose: To prepare and observe onion cells under

a microscope with proficiency.

 You will be working in groups of 3.

 Within each group agree on who is going to be

1. Microscope Operator (Plug in - light is on – focus on

onion cells).

2. Team leader (Guide team members – keep track on time -Peel

off inner thin layer of onion).

3. Cell Preparer (add stain – place cover slip).

Materials per team:

• onion
• microscope
• clean microscope slide and cover slip
• tweezers
• dropper
• stain - methylene blue staining solution • paper towel

Procedure:

1. Cut off a small piece of onion

2. Use tweezers or your fingernail to peel away a thin layer of
onion tissue from the inside.
3. Carefully spread and smooth the onion skin flat on the middle of
the microscope slide.
4. Add 1 drop of stain (methylene blue). (Be careful as it will stain
skin/clothing.)
5. With tweezers, slowly place a cover slip over the skin. (gently tap it
to remove any air bubbles).
6. Gently use a paper towel to absorb any excess solution.

Ask for your slide to be given a mark out of 4.

7. Place the microscope slide onto the stage and secure with the
stage clips.
8. Ensure the magnification is at the lowest setting to begin with.
9. Use the adjustment knobs to focus on the onion cells.

Ask for it to be checked and awarded a mark out of

4.

10. Observe the cell at a higher magnification.

It’s the time when you have to complete your worksheet.

Remember to clean your working area before leaving the

class then ask to get a mark out of 2 for that.