Egg Macromolecules Lab Analysis: 10.10.2016

      In the following lab, our group asked the following question, "Can macromolecules be identified in a cell?" With our group's evidence, we discovered that macromolecules can be identified in cells. In fact, our group decided with our information that proteins are found in almost parts of the cell, shown through the identifier sodium hydroxide, which turns liquid from blue to purple on contact if they contain proteins.
      For example, proteins are found in the cell's cytoplasm. This is shown in the protein data table, where the egg example substance scored a 9 out of 10, turning light purple on contact with its identifier. This is because proteins are found in organelles, which need them in order to function.
      Our group also found that proteins are found in the nucleus of cells. This is shown in the data table for protein identification, where the egg yolk example for the nucleus scored an 8 out of 10 on contact with the identifier, turning dark purple. This may be because proteins transport RNA out of the nucleus from DNA in order to give the rest of the cell commands.
      Proteins are found in the cell membrane as well as the nucleus and the cytoplasm. This is shown in the data table, where the egg membrane example is given a score of 5 out of 10, turning indigo on contact. This is because protein channels are scattered across the cell membrane, which help transport molecules into the cell.

      This lab was done to give us a better understanding of what macromolecules are located in parts of the cell. However, some errors could have happened in the lab which could have offset the results. For example, some did not stir all of the contents of the identifier and the egg substance together, which could have lightened the color of the final substance. This is shown in the monosaccharides test, where heat is used to solidify some of the unmixed substances, and can be fixed if shown in the instructions to mix the identifier with the egg substance. Another error is shown when groups take the liquid substance in the egg as the egg white instead of the actual thicker egg white. This can completely alter the data shown, and can also be minimized with proper detailed instructions. This lab reminded me of a microscope looking at ants, inspecting every detail of it. This lab could be used to figure out what specific types of macromolecules live in other specific types of the cell.