Leaves and Pigments

Question 1

Leaf

Answer 1

Photosynthetic organ:
- Structure maximizes surface area (width), and limits distance gases travel (thin)
- Wax cuticle prevents over-absorption of water / excessive sunlight
- Photosynthetic cells: mesophyll
- Guard cells create openings called stomata that regulate exchange of O2 and CO2, and allows water vapour to exit/enter via transpiration
- Vascular bundles carry water & minerals from roots to leaves, and carbs from leaves to roots

Question 2

Pigments

Answer 2

Compounds that absorb certain wavelengths of light and reflect other wavelengths

Question 3

Chlorophyll

Answer 3

Reflects green light
- Porphyrin Ring: Mg center, alternating double and single bonded carbons - delocalized electrons absorb light
- Hydrocarbon Tail: anchors to membrane (non-polar)