2. Viewing Onion Cells
STEP 1: Watch a video below on how to view onion cells under a microscope. To see the cell parts more clearly, add a few drops of iodine to your sample.
STEP 2: Now that you’ve seen onion cells under the microscope, watch the video below to learn what happens when plant cells (like onion cells) lose water. This process is called plasmolysis. Pay attention to how the cell membrane shrinks away from the cell wall and think about why that happens.
STEP 2: Now it’s your turn to see plasmolysis for yourself. Take a small piece of onion skin and place it in salt water for about 10–15 minutes. Then, view it under your Foldscope or microscope. Look closely—can you see the cell membrane pulling away from the cell wall? This process, called plasmolysis, happens when water leaves the cell due to the salty environment. You’re watching it in real time! If you want a preview of what it might look like, check out the video below.
STEP 3: Use the QR code below to upload pictures of your onion cells. If possible, try to capture a short video of plasmolysis in action—but photos are great too! Be sure to type your first name in the “Subject” line when you upload.
Instructions (Step 4): Click here to carefully view the video to learn how to view onion cells using a microscope. Use a drop of iodine to help visualize the different parts of the onion cells.
Instructions (Step 5): Use the QR code provided below to upload an image of your onion cells. Type your first name in the “Subject” area.
