Functions And Adaptions Of A Leaf

Question 1

Function and adaption of the waxy cuticle

Answer 1

Function:
- a waxy layer
- prevents water loss from the leaf surface

Adaption:
- water resistant to prevent evaporation of water

Question 2

Function and adaption of upper epidermis

Answer 2

Function:
- protect internal tissues from mechanical damage and bacterial and fungal invasion

Adaption:
- cells packed closely together for increased protection
- (are transparent and lets light through them)

Question 3

Function and adaption of palisade mesophyll

Answer 3

Function:
- Columnar cells closely packed together to absorb light more efficiently
- photosynthesis

Adaption:
- contains many chloroplasts for increased photosynthesis
- and also absorbs light energy

Question 4

Function and adaption of spongy mesophyll

Answer 4

Function:
- allow rapid diffusion of gases throughout the leaf
- photosynthesis

Adaption:
- irregular cells loosely packed together to leave numerous large air spaces
- has some chloroplasts for photosynthesis and rapid diffusion of gases

Question 5

Function and adaption of lower epidermis

Answer 5

Function:
- same as the upper epidermis except the cuticle is thinner

Adaption:
- interspersed with many stomata to allow gaseous exchange

Question 6

Function and adaption of stomata

Answer 6

Function:
- opening which allows gases to pass through it to go into or out of the leaf

Adaption:
- allows gases to enter and leave the leaf

Question 7

Function and adaption of guard cells

Answer 7

Function:
- control the size of the stoma

Adaptations:
- open and close to lose or retain gases
(Including water vapour)