Internal Structure of a Leaf

Question 1

Name the features and functions of the cuticle.

Answer 1

1. It is not a cell, it is a waxy ayer.
2. Protection
3. Prevents water loss
4. Allows light to pass into the leaf cells

Question 2

Name the features and functions of the upper and lower epidermis.

Answer 2

1. Absolutely transparent (allows maximum light to pass into the leaves)
2. Protection
3. Prevents water loss
4. Secretes the waxy layer (cuticle)

The lower epidermis doesn’t have a cuticle (it is very thin)

Question 3

Name the features and functions of the palisade cells.

Answer 3

1. Tall and thin cells
2. Tightly packed
3. Contain chloroplasts (helping in photosynthesis)
4. Site of photosynthesis in the leaf

Question 4

Name the features and functions of the spongy mesophyll cells.

Answer 4

1. Irregular shaped cells
2. Have air spaces in between
3. Contain chloroplasts (helping in photosynthesis)
4. Exchange of gases in the leaf.

Question 5

Name the features and functions of the stomata.

Answer 5

1. Pore like structures
2. Allows for diffusion of gases
3. Helps in the transpiration of water

Question 6

Name the features and functions of the guard cells.

Answer 6

1. Changes shape
2. Regulates the closing and opening of stomata and transpiration

Question 7

Name the features and functions of the vascular bundle.

Answer 7

1. Comprises of conducting vessels - xylem and phloem

Question 8

Name the features and functions of the xylem.

Answer 8

1. Conducting tissue which conducts water and minerals
2. Moves in only 1 direction

Question 9

Name the features and functions of the phloem.

Answer 9

1. Conducting tissue which conducts food to different parts of the plant
2. Moves in both directions.