How do prokaryotic cells differ from eukaryotic cells? Overview:
In the mid-1800's, Robert Brown used a microscope to observe the leaf cells of orchids. He detected a darker, circular portion in the cells called a nucleus. In addition to the nucleus, some cells have other parts called organelles. You will repeat Brown's observations of the nucleus, but can it be found in all cells? In this microscope lab activity, you will observe two types of cells, prokaryotic and eukaryotic.
Procedure:
Part A: Prokaryotic (Nostoc)
Draw the Nostoc under high power in the circles provided with pencil or colored pencil.
Part B: Eukaryotic (Spirogyra)
Place a prepared slide of Spirogyra on the platform of the microscope. Focus the microscope and observe the Spirogyra under low, medium, and high power.
Draw the Spirogyra under high power in the circles provided with pencil or colored pencil.
Questions:
Answer questions in complete sentences in the spaces below.
Did you see a nucleus or other large cell parts in the Nostoc, an example of a prokaryotic cell? Did you see a nucleus or other large cell parts in the Spirogyra, an example of a eukaryotic cell?
Which cells were bigger, the Nostoc (prokaryotic) or the Spirogyra (eukaryotic)?
What was the same about the Nostoc (prokaryotic) and the Spirogyra (eukaryotic)?
Do you think the cells that make up our bodies and other organisms are prokaryotic cells like the Nostoc or eukaryotic cells like the Spirogyra? Explain why or why not.
Eukaryotic cells have more parts than prokaryotic cells do. What do you think would be an advantage to having more parts to a cell?
rawings: