Xylem experiment Flashcards
1
Q
Observing xylem vessels in living plant stems
A
- Place celery stalks into water with strong dye for 24 hours
- In one specimen, make transverse cuts across the stem with a blade on a white tile
- Draw position of xylem vessels, which show as coloured spots
- In another specimen, make longitudinal cuts through region where you expect xylem vessels
- Draw xylem vessels which show as coloured lines
2
Q
How does experiment compare to micrographs of longitudinal and transverse sections?
A
Less detailed, only gives position of xylem, not other tissues, but shows the movement of water
happening in living tissue
3
Q
What are the limitations of this method on observing plant transport tissues?
A
Can only see xylem – cannot be modified to show phloem.
To get good sections where xylem vessels can be clearly seen is largely dependent on how sharp blade is and having a steady hand.
If longitudinal sections are cut in wrong place in stems then you won’t see any xylem.