How could a student accurately find the number of stomata per cm² using a slide?

To determine the number of stomata per cm² accurately, counting stomata in several fields of view and calculating the mean is the most reliable approach. This method accounts for variability across the slide, as stomatal density can differ in different areas. By averaging the counts from multiple fields, the student can ensure that their findings are representative of the entire slide rather than relying on a single, potentially unrepresentative sample.

Using this method can improve accuracy because it reduces the influence of any outliers or anomalies caused by variations in stomatal distribution. If a student were to count only in one field of view and assume uniformity, they might not capture the true density unless the sample happened to be perfectly representative. Measuring the area of the slide could provide a surface area measurement, but it doesn't directly relate to the counting of stomata. Moreover, focusing only on the center of the slide might miss important data from other regions, leading to skewed results. Thus, averaging counts from multiple areas provides the best means for an accurate estimation of stomatal density.