Leaf Structure

Question 1

Function of waxy cuticle

Answer 1

Helps reduce water loss by evaporation

Question 2

Function of palisade layer

Answer 2

Where most photosynthesis happens, contains chloroplasts

Question 3

Function of spongy layer

Answer 3

Contains big air space to allow gases such as CO2 and O2 to diffuse in and out of cells by photosynthesis

Question 4

Function of xylem and phloem

Answer 4

Xylem - Transports water and minerals
Phloem - transport food substances

Question 5

What can leaves do to allow gas exchange and regulate loss of water

Answer 5

They can open and close their stomata

Question 6

Why is the upper epidermis transparent

Answer 6

To allow light to pass through to the palisade layer

Question 7

What controls the loss of water from
The leaf and gas exchange?

Answer 7

Guard cells

Question 8

Describe adaptations to the xylem

Answer 8

No end walls between cells, one way only, thick walls stiffened with lignin, transports waters and minerals, made of dead cells

Carries water and mineral salts from the roots to the stem

Question 9

Describe adaptations of the phloem

Answer 9

Phloem Tubes are made of columns of elongated cells, pores in end walls to allow substances through, two way flow

Transports water and food in the phloem vessel

Question 10

Function of the root hair cell

Answer 10

Absorbs water and minerals

Question 11

How does the root hair cell take in both water and minerals?

Answer 11

Water - via osmosis
Minerals - via active transport