CAIE A-Level Biology 1.1 Microscopes in Cell Studies Question Bank

Practise microscope questions by calculating actual size or magnification, calibrating graticules and judging resolution in light and electron images.

Exam points

calculate actual size or magnification from drawings, photomicrographs and electron micrographs
calibrate eyepiece graticules with stage micrometers and convert between mm, µm and nm
distinguish magnification, resolution and light, TEM or SEM image evidence

Covered syllabus points

1.1.1—Temporary cell preparations 1.1.2—Cell drawings 1.1.3—Magnification and actual size 1.1.4—Microscope measurement tools 1.1.5—Resolution and magnification

[Maximum number: 1]

Smooth muscle is a tissue composed of smooth muscle cells. The cells contain cytoplasm packed with proteins that are involved in contraction and relaxation.

When viewed in longitudinal section (LS), smooth muscle cells are elongated and taper at both ends. This is known as a fusiform shape. Each cell has a central nucleus, which also appears elongated.

Fig. 1.1 is a diagram of a smooth muscle cell to show the fusiform shape.

Fig. 1.1

A student used a microscope fitted with a calibrated eyepiece graticule to estimate that the length of one smooth muscle cell was 250 micrometres $(\mu \mathrm{m})$ .

Name the type of microscope slide that the student used to calibrate the eyepiece graticule.

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Covered syllabus points

1.1 The Microscope in Cell Studies question 1