Protoplast isolation was first carried out by

Options

A. (a) Mendel
B. (b) Cocking
C. (c) Bateson
D. (d) Skoog

Answer

**Step-by-Step Solution:**

1. **Understanding the Question**: The question asks about the scientist who first carried out protoplast isolation. Protoplasts are plant cells that have had their cell wall removed.

2. **Analyzing the Options**: The options provided include various scientists. We need to evaluate each one to determine who is associated with protoplast isolation.

3. **Evaluating Option A - Mendel**: Gregor Mendel is known as the father of genetics for his work on inheritance patterns in pea plants. He did not conduct research on protoplast isolation. Thus, this option is incorrect.

4. **Evaluating Option B - Cochrane**: Cochrane is noted for performing the first protoplast isolation in 1916 using enzymatic methods. This is a significant contribution to plant biology, making this option likely correct.

5. **Evaluating Option C - Bateson**: William Bateson is credited with coining the term "genetics." His work focused on heredity and did not involve protoplast isolation. Therefore, this option is incorrect.

6. **Evaluating Option D - Spook**: The scientist Spook, along with Miller, discovered the phytohormone cytokinin. This research is unrelated to protoplast isolation, making this option incorrect as well.

7. **Conclusion**: After evaluating all the options, the correct answer is **B - Cochrane**, as he was the first to carry out protoplast isolation.

**Final Answer**: Protoplast isolation was first carried out by Cochrane.

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