The Plasmolysis of Elodea
Purpose: To demonstrate and observe the plasmolysis of elodea in a saturated salt solution
Materials:
Elodea kept in distilled water
Super saturated salt solution
Droppers
Cover Slips
Slides
Microscopes
Colored Pencils
Procedure:
1.
Prepare a wet-mount slide of elodea and observe under high power.
2. Record your observations (draw, label, color and estimate the size.)
3. While the cell is being observed under high power, add a drop of the concentrated salt solution
to the edge of the cover slip.
4. Using a paper towel on the opposite side pull the water through.
5. Record all observations (draw, label, color and estimate size.)
Prediction: What do you think will happen to the elodea cell when you add the salt water solution?
Discussion Questions:
1. What kind of solution was originally under the cover-slip?
2. What did the solution become after you added the salt water?
3. How does your gummy bear lab compare to the elodea plasmolysis? (be sure to use correct
scientific terminology central vacuole, hypertonic, hypotonic, semi-permeable, osmosis,
diffusion, isotonic, equilibrium)
4. Explain why grocers mist produce (fruits and vegetables).
* Be sure your drawings are ACCURATE and show the
movement of water. Be sure to LABEL everything and use
appropriate colors.