Leaves Flashcards
Why are leaves green?
They contain the green pigment called chlorophyll
How are leaves adapted for photosynthesis?
They are green, thin, large surface area, veins (xylem and phloem vessels)
What is the function of chlorophyll?
To absorb sunlight for photosynthesis
Why are leaves thin?
To allow gases to diffuse in and out of the leaf easily
Why do leaves have a large surface area?
To absorb as much light as possible
Why do leaves have xylem vessels?
To transport water
Why do leaves have phloem vessels?
To transport glucose
Why are leaves darker on the top and lighter on the bottom?
The top of the leaf has lots of green chlorophyll to absorb as much light as possible. The underside of the leaf is usually in shade and does not have as much chlorophyll
Why does the top of the leaf have a waxy layer?
To reduce evaporation of water (needed for photosynthesis)
What are the holes on the underside of the leaf called?
Stomata (singular stoma)
What is the function of stomata?
To allow gases in and out of the leaf
What diffuses into the leaf?
Carbon dioxide
What diffuses out of the leaf?
Oxygen and water vapour
What opens and closes the stomata?
Guard cells
What are the two main layers in the leaf?
The palisade layer and the spongy layer
