Leaves are Adapted for Efficient Gas Exchange Flashcards
1
Q
Leaves are broad, so there’s a large surface area for…
A
Diffusion
2
Q
Why is it good that they are thin?
A
It means gases only have to travel a short distance to reach the cells where they’re needed
3
Q
What do the air spaces in the leaf do?
A
Let gases like CO2 and O2 move easily between cells
Increase surface area for gas exchange
4
Q
What is the lower surface full of?
A
Loads of little holes called stomata
5
Q
What do the stomata do?
A
Let gases like CO2 and O2 diffuse in and out
Allow water to escape - transpiration
6
Q
Why do the stomata close?
A
Photosynthesis can’t happen in dark
Stops plant from drying out
Water can’t escape
7
Q
What do the guard cells control?
A
The opening and closing of stomata
